Final answer:
IT professionals are responsible for ensuring that data is collected and used in compliance with laws and regulations, given the significance of data privacy and the prevalence of data breaches.
Step-by-step explanation:
It is indeed true that IT professionals are responsible for ensuring that data is collected and used in compliance with relevant laws and regulations. This responsibility is a critical aspect of their roles, especially given the increasing concerns around data privacy and protection. With the awareness that data breaches are a significant issue and the fact that a large percentage of people feel they have little control over their data, IT professionals must adhere to ethical practices and legal standards. Professional organizations set the ethical baselines, and various laws at the federal and international levels regulate the handling of data.
In the context of data breaches, the importance of this responsibility can't be overstated. It's not only about preventing unauthorized access to data but also about ensuring proper data usage, maintaining data integrity, and safeguarding privacy. IT professionals must stay updated on new laws, understand industry-specific regulations, and implement measures to comply with requirements like GDPR, HIPAA, and others in the field of data protection.