Accuracy (Data Quality Principle)

The requirement that personal data must be accurate, complete, and kept up to date when necessary for the purposes for which it's processed. This principle recognizes that incorrect information can lead to wrong decisions affecting individuals' lives—from credit decisions to healthcare treatments. Organizations must take reasonable steps to ensure accuracy, such as verifying information at collection, providing mechanisms for individuals to update their data, and regularly reviewing stored information. If you discover inaccurate data, you must correct or delete it promptly. The standard is reasonableness—you're not expected to verify every piece of data constantly, but you should have processes in place to maintain accuracy appropriate to how you use the data. For sensitive decisions affecting individuals, higher accuracy standards apply.