Privacy

How to delete your personal health data

When does the right to be forgotten apply?

Having the right to be forgotten

The right to be forgotten legislation is a legal concept that has been gaining popularity in recent years. This legislation gives individuals the right to have their personal information removed from the public domain, especially from search engines and social media platforms. The importance of this legislation to consumers cannot be overemphasized as it provides them with the power to control their privacy and protect their personal data. The right to be forgotten legislation is especially important when it comes to personal health data.

This is because health data is sensitive information that can be used to discriminate against individuals. For example, insurance companies may use this information to deny coverage or charge higher premiums. Employers may also use this information to make hiring decisions or to discriminate against employees. By having the right to be forgotten, individuals can ensure that their personal health data is not misused or abused. This means that they can control who has access to this information and how it is used. Additionally, it gives individuals the power to remove this information from the public domain if they so choose.

When is it appropriate to invoke the right to be forgotten?

In the following circumstances, an organization must delete your personal data:

  • It is no longer required - Your personal data is no longer required by the organization for the purposes for which it was acquired or for which it is processed.
  • Permission was revoked - You previously granted the organization permission to use your data, but you are now revoking that permission.
  • Objection - You don't want your information to be used.
  • Processing that is illegal - When using your personal data, the organization does not follow the privacy rules. Because there is no legal basis for the processing, for example.
  • The legally mandated retention time has ended - After a set length of time, the organization is legally required to erase your data.
  • Apps and websites for kids - Your child is under the age of 16, and personal information about him or her was gathered via an app or website. Or your data was acquired in this manner when you were under the age of 16.

When is it appropriate to invoke the right to be forgotten?
The right to be forgotten does have several exceptions. For example, if an organization is required by law to use or retain your data for a specific amount of time. If you ask for your data to be deleted, the organization is not allowed to do so.

However, it is important to note that the right to be forgotten legislation is not absolute. It only applies in certain circumstances, such as when the information is no longer relevant or accurate. Additionally, there may be situations where the public interest in accessing the information outweighs an individual's right to privacy. In conclusion, the right to be forgotten legislation is an important legal concept that provides consumers with the power to control their privacy and protect their personal data. This legislation is especially important when it comes to personal health data as it can be used to discriminate against individuals. By having the right to be forgotten, individuals can ensure that their personal health data is not misused or abused. However, it is important to note that this right is not absolute and only applies in certain circumstances.

Right to be Forgotten Overview by Google