Do companies always need my consent to use my data?

Plain-English Statutory Answer

Not always. Consent is the main ground, but Section 7 allows 'legitimate uses' without consent, for example: when you voluntarily give data for a stated purpose and do not object, for government benefits and services, to comply with a law or court order, for medical emergencies, during disasters, and for employment purposes. Outside those cases, the organisation must get your consent.

consent required, legitimate uses, section 7, without consent, when is consent not needed, lawful grounds Updated: Nov 01, 2026