A government minister highlighted the importance of protecting information on Data Privacy Day this week.

Crystal Caesar, the Minister of the Cabinet Office, explained: “Data privacy is not just a legal requirement, it is a fundamental right that underpins our digital society.”

She added that the Personal Information Protection Act, which was fully enacted on January 1, reinforces Bermuda’s “commitment to safeguarding personal information and empowering individuals to take control of their data”.

Data Privacy Day, which was observed on Tuesday, celebrates Convention 108, the first legally binding international treaty on data protection.

Alexander White, the Privacy Commissioner, commemorated the occasion outside City Hall.

A government spokeswoman said this year’s theme, “Take Control of your Data,” was “especially relevant in an era where personal information is collected, used and shared at an unprecedented scale”.

Ms Caesar said safeguarding personal information depends on “collective responsibility, individuals exercising their rights organisations embedding privacy practices and the wider community fostering a culture of privacy”.

She encouraged members of the public to use the observance to deepen understanding of privacy and data protection.

Ms Caesar added: “Together we can strengthen our commitment to ensuring that personal information remains secure and respected across our island.”