Which regulatory framework focuses on data privacy and protection?

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is the regulatory framework that focuses specifically on data privacy and protection. GDPR was enacted by the European Union and is designed to enhance individuals' control over their personal data and to simplify the regulatory environment for international business. It sets forth strict guidelines on the collection, storage, and processing of personal data, establishing principles such as data minimization, purpose limitation, and accountability.

GDPR applies to any organization processing personal data of EU residents, regardless of the organization's location, which underscores its global impact on data privacy practices. Additionally, it imposes significant fines for non-compliance, thus emphasizing the importance of proper data management and legal adherence in protecting individuals' privacy rights.

In contrast, while PCI-DSS primarily focuses on the security of payment card information, NIST provides a framework for information security that encompasses risk management and cybersecurity without directly addressing individual privacy rights. ISO 27001 outlines an information security management system framework but does not focus explicitly on data privacy. Therefore, GDPR stands out as the framework specifically dedicated to safeguarding personal data and ensuring individuals' privacy.