In the terms of their relevance under data protection legislation, how can CCTV images recorded in a supermarket BEST be described'?
Correct Answer: D
Explanation
CCTV images recorded in a supermarket are personal data as they can be used to identify living human beings, either directly or indirectly, by their physical appearance, clothing, accessories, or other distinctive features.
Personal data is defined in Article 4(1) of the GDPR as "any information relating to an identified or identifiable natural person". The GDPR applies to the processing of personal data by automated means, such as CCTV cameras, or by non-automated means that form part of a filing system, such as paper records. The other options are incorrect because:
* CCTV images are not special category data as they do not reveal any of the sensitive information listed in Article 9(1) of the GDPR, such as racial or ethnic origin, political opinions, religious or philosophical beliefs, trade union membership, health, sex life or sexual orientation, or biometric or genetic data.
Special category data is subject to stricter conditions and safeguards under the GDPR, as it poses a higher risk to the rights and freedoms of individuals.
* CCTV images are not biometric data in the terms of the definition stipulated in the GDPR. Biometric data is defined in Article 4(14) of the GDPR as "personal data resulting from specific technical processing relating to the physical, physiological or behavioural characteristics of a natural person, which allow or confirm the unique identification of that natural person, such as facial images or dactyloscopic data". CCTV images do not result from specific technical processing, nor do they allow or confirm the unique identification of a natural person, unless they are combined with other data or identifiers.
* The GDPR is not only engaged where CCTV images are accompanied by text or other identifier. The GDPR applies to any information that relates to an identified or identifiable natural person, regardless of whether it is accompanied by text or other identifier. CCTV images can relate to an identifiable natural person even if they do not contain any text or other identifier, as long as there is a possibility to single out or link the person to other data or factors. References:
* GDPR, Article 4(1)1
* GDPR, Article 2(1)2
* GDPR, Article 9(1)3
* GDPR, Article 4(14)4