What are privacy impact assessments (PIA) required for?

Privacy Impact Assessments (PIAs) are specifically required for federal agencies to evaluate how personal data is collected, stored, shared, and managed. The purpose of a PIA is to identify potential privacy risks and ensure compliance with privacy laws and policies before an agency initiates new projects or systems that collect personal information. This process helps to protect individuals' privacy and safeguard their data, fostering trust in the government's handling of sensitive information.

While state governments, non-profit organizations, and corporations may have their own privacy assessments or regulations in place, the formal requirement for PIAs is particularly emphasized at the federal level to align with legal mandates, such as those outlined in the E-Government Act of 2002. This federal focus reinforces the importance of accountability and transparency in the handling of personal data by governmental bodies.