What is the primary focus of the Use Limitation Principle?

The primary focus of the Use Limitation Principle is to limit data usage to specified purposes. This principle is foundational in data protection and privacy laws and mandates that personal data should only be collected for legitimate, specified purposes, and not used in ways that are inconsistent with those purposes. By adhering to this principle, organizations can foster trust with individuals by ensuring that their data is handled responsibly and only utilized for the reasons initially stated at the time of collection.

This approach also serves as a protective measure against potential misuse of personal data, aligning with ethical standards and legal requirements. It helps organizations define clear boundaries around how data can be processed and provides a framework for accountability. Consequently, the Use Limitation Principle plays a crucial role in organizational data governance policies, empowering stakeholders to understand the scope and limitations of data handling practices.