In recent years, with the increase in the digitalization of information and the amount of personal data circulating online, concerns about the misuse of this information have become increasingly relevant. Many people wonder whether it is a crime to use someone else’s personal data and what the legal consequences are for those who commit this type of act.
In this article, we will explain the legal implications, the risks in using personal data without authorization, and the protection measures in place for both those who handle and those who provide data. Knowing more about data protection legislation is essential to ensure that your actions are within the law and to protect your own information.
What is personal data?
Before understanding whether or not it is a crime to use someone else’s data, it is important to know what personal data is . According to the General Data Protection Law (LGPD) , in Brazil, personal data is any information to an or identifiable natural person. This includes:This data is extremely sensitive and, therefore, its use is to guarantee people’s privacy and security.
Is using someone else’s personal data a crime?
Yes, using someone else’s personal data without their explicit consent is a crime and can have serious legal consequences. The General Data Protection Law (LGPD) , in force since 2020 in Brazil, regulates the use of personal data and establishes that any data processing (collection, storage, sharing, etc.) must have a legal basis, such as the consent of the data subject or a legitimate interest.
The use of personal data without authorization may constitute crimes such as:
Ideological falsehood : When someone uses another person’s data to impersonate them, whether to open bank accounts, make france whatsapp number data purchases or carry out other fraudulent activities.
Fraud : The use of personal data to obtain undue advantages, such as online purchases or applying for loans, is also a crime.
Fraud : When data is to deceive another person or institution, with the aim of obtaining an economic benefit.
Furthermore, the misuse of data can result in heavy fines and even civil lawsuits for moral and material damages to the party.
Legal consequences of misuse of personal data
If someone is caught using someone else’s personal data without their consent, they may face a variety of penalties, depending on the severity of the case. The penalties for by the LGPD include:
Fines : A company or person that misuses data may be up to 2% of the organization’s revenue, with a limit of up to R$50 million per violation.
Civil liability : The victim find out how mentoring works and what its advantages are at different levels of companies can file a lawsuit for moral and material damages by the improper use of their data.
Criminal actions : In the most serious cases, such as fraud or ideological falsehood, the offender may be criminally , which may result in a prison sentence.
Furthermore, the misuse of data can cause damage to the reputation of both individuals and companies, compromising the trust of customers and partners.
How to protect your personal data?
Protecting your personal data is essential to prevent it from being by third parties. Some practical measures include:
Avoid sharing sensitive information on social networks or platforms that are not secure.
Verify the authenticity of any china phone numbers request for personal data, especially in suspicious emails or messages.
Use strong, unique passwords for different online accounts and change these passwords regularly.
Consult the privacy policies of companies and websites before providing any type of personal data.
What to do if your data is used inappropriately?
If you notice that your personal data is being without your permission, it is important to act quickly:
Contact the responsible company or organization and demand that they stop misusing your data.
File a police report in case of fraudulent use, such as ideological falsehood or fraud.
Notify the National Data Protection Authority (ANPD) to report the violation.
Seek legal advice to initiate civil or criminal action if necessary.