What Data Protection Bill needs to do to actually protect

Source: The post is based on the article “What Data Protection Bill needs to do to actually protect” published in “Indian Express” on 10th July 2023.

Syllabus: GS 2- Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.

News: India’s government is considering reintroducing the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill during the upcoming Parliament Monsoon session. The aim of this potential move is to better protect online users, referred to as ‘digital nagriks’ or digital citizens.

What is data portability?

Data portability is a provision that allows users to move their personal data from one digital platform to another. It’s designed to give individuals more control over their online data. For instance, a small business using a large e-commerce platform can take its user data and transfer it to another platform. This means that if the business is unhappy with the practices of the current platform, it can switch to a competitor without losing all the data it generated on the original platform. This empowers users and provides them with more control over their own data.

What is data interoperability?

Data interoperability refers to the ability of different digital platforms to work together and exchange information seamlessly. It would allow users who switch platforms to not only take their data with them, but also continue interacting with users from the original platform. This enhances the users’ flexibility and freedom, and also encourages cross-platform communication and interaction.

For instance, if data interoperability were implemented, a Twitter user could choose to leave Twitter for a rival platform, taking all her personal data with her. In addition, due to data interoperability, she would still be able to communicate with her contacts on Twitter, despite having switched platforms.

Should the Government Include Data Portability and Interoperability Provisions?

Given the benefits of data portability and interoperability, the government should include these provisions in the revised Digital Personal Data Protection Bill.

Such a move can significantly enhance user control over personal data and potentially stimulate India’s start-up ecosystem by fostering healthy competition. It’s a crucial step to transform and democratize digital experiences, making it more beneficial and empowering for users, while also encouraging innovative and responsible practices in data management by tech platforms.

Conclusion

In conclusion, incorporating data portability and interoperability into the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill could enhance user control, stimulate India’s start-up ecosystem, and revolutionize internet interaction, offering a critical step forward in our increasingly digital world.