Privacy Act
/ˈpraɪvəsi ækt/
Definitions
- (n.) A statutory framework enacted to regulate the collection, use, and disclosure of personal information by government agencies or private entities to protect individual privacy.
The Privacy Act establishes guidelines that prevent unauthorized sharing of citizen data by government departments.
- (n.) Specifically, the U.S. Privacy Act of 1974, which governs federal agencies' handling of personal records.
Under the Privacy Act, federal agencies must allow individuals to access and correct their personal records.
Forms
- privacy act
- privacy acts
Related terms
See also
Commentary
The term 'Privacy Act' may refer generally to any law protecting personal data or specifically to named statutes like the U.S. Privacy Act of 1974; context determines precise meaning.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.