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The Privacy Act of 1974: Protecting Individuals' Information
Overview
The Privacy Act of 1974 (5 USC 552a) establishes regulations for the management of personal information by federal agencies. It ensures that such information is collected, used, and shared fairly and responsibly.
Key Provisions
The Privacy Act outlines several key provisions:
- Code of Fair Information Practices: Agencies must follow specific guidelines when handling personal data, including proper collection, maintenance, and dissemination.
- Disclosure Restrictions: Personal information can only be disclosed to specific parties and for authorized purposes, unless the individual consents or there is a statutory exception.
- Access and Amendment Rights: Individuals can request access to and request corrections to their personal information held by agencies.
Significance
The Privacy Act has played a significant role in safeguarding individuals' privacy from the federal government. It:
- Protects sensitive information from being misused or disclosed without authorization.
- Empowers individuals to control and access their personal data.
- Promotes transparency and accountability in government data handling.
Enforcement
The Department of Justice's Office of Privacy and Civil Liberties (OPCL) is responsible for enforcing the Privacy Act. Individuals may file complaints with OPCL if they believe their privacy rights have been violated.
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