How can I enforce my right to data protection on the internet?
January 22, 2022 | 40,00 EUR | answered by Nina Koch
Dear attorneys,
My name is Gertrud Strauss and I am concerned about my data protection rights on the internet. Lately, I have noticed that more and more of my personal data is available online without my consent. I feel that my privacy is being violated and I would like to know how I can enforce my right to data protection.
My current situation is as follows: I am increasingly receiving unwanted advertising emails and calls from companies that have obviously obtained my data from the internet. Additionally, I often find personal information about myself such as address, phone number, or email address in public directories or social networks, which have been published there without my knowledge.
This development is causing me great concern as I do not know who has access to my data and how it is being used. I want to uphold my right to data protection and prevent my personal information from being spread uncontrollably on the internet.
Therefore, my question to you is: What legal steps can I take to enforce my right to data protection on the internet? Are there ways to take action against companies that use my data without my consent? How can I better protect my privacy on the internet and what measures can I take to control my personal data?
I look forward to your professional advice and support on this matter.
Sincerely,
Gertrud Strauss
Dear Mrs. Strauss,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding your data protection rights on the internet. It is understandable that you are concerned about the dissemination of your personal data without your consent and the unwanted advertising that you receive as a result. Data protection on the internet is an important issue that is gaining more and more importance as personal information becomes increasingly available online.
First and foremost, it is important to know that data protection in Germany is regulated by the Federal Data Protection Act (BDSG) and since May 2018 also by the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) of the European Union. These laws are designed to ensure that your personal data on the internet is protected and cannot be used without your consent. Companies processing personal data must adhere to certain rules to ensure your privacy.
If you find that your data is being used without your consent, you can take legal action. Initially, you should try to contact the companies using your data and request them to delete it. If this does not work, you can contact the data protection authority and file a complaint. The authority can then investigate whether data protection laws have been violated and take appropriate measures.
Furthermore, you can also take civil action against companies that use your data without consent. You can claim damages and enforce injunctions to prevent further use of your data.
To better protect your privacy on the internet, you should be careful about what personal information you share online. Check your privacy settings on social networks and other online platforms and limit access to your data. Avoid posting sensitive information such as your address or phone number publicly, and be cautious about sharing your data with unknown companies.
Additionally, you can take technical measures to protect your online privacy, such as using secure passwords, encryption technologies, and VPN services.
I hope this information helps you and supports you in enforcing your data protection rights on the internet. If you have any further questions or need legal assistance, I am happy to help.
Best regards,
Nina Koch
