Which principle is associated with the requirement for consent in data collection?

The principle associated with the requirement for consent in data collection is that individuals must be able to prevent the collection of personal data unless required by law. This principle emphasizes an individual’s autonomy over their personal information, reflecting the idea that consent is a fundamental component of ethical data practices. The requirement for consent ensures that individuals have control over whether their personal information can be collected, processed, and used by organizations.

In many privacy laws, including Canadian privacy legislation, this principle is key in protecting individuals’ rights and fostering trust between individuals and organizations in handling personal data. It underscores the importance of transparent practices around data collection and reinforces the necessity for organizations to secure explicit consent from individuals before collecting their personal information, except where legal obligations dictate otherwise.