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What is digital data privacy? How thought leaders define it and why it matters for you and your fam

Updated: May 19, 2023


While the term “privacy” is not explicitly mentioned in the United States Constitution, the Supreme Court has recognized a constitutional right to privacy that is implied by the language and spirit of the First, Fourth, Fifth, and Fourteenth Amendments.

In addition to constitutional protections, various federal and state laws define and protect privacy rights. For example, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) sets standards for protecting the privacy and security of certain health information. The Electronic Communications Privacy Act (ECPA) provides protections for electronic communications, while the Video Privacy Protection Act (VPPA) regulates the disclosure of video rental records.


Overall, privacy in the United States is a complex and multifaceted legal concept, with different laws and regulations applying to different situations and contexts


Different Ways of Defining and Dealing with Privacy:


The Center for Humane Technology

The Center for Humane Technology advocates for ethical and humane technology design. Their definition of data privacy is centered around the idea that individuals should have control over their personal data, and that data should only be used in ways that respect people’s dignity, autonomy, and well-being.


The Electronic Frontier Foundation

The National Institute of Standards and Technology

European Union (EU) Law

California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA)

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)

Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act:



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