Reasonable Security Safeguards under DPDPA

In the context of data privacy, reasonable security safeguards are crucial for protecting personal data against unauthorized access, use, or disclosure. Rule 6 of the Data Protection and Digital Privacy (DPDP) Rules, 2025 outlines specific requirements for organizations to implement these safeguards effectively.

Rule 6 emphasizes the need for organizations to adopt a risk-based approach when establishing security measures. This means that the level of security implemented should be commensurate with the potential risks associated with the data being processed.

Key Components of Reasonable Security Safeguards

1. Data Inventory and Classification
   • Organizations should maintain an inventory of the personal data they handle and classify it based on sensitivity. This helps in determining the appropriate security measures needed.
2. Access Controls
   • Implementing strict access controls ensures that only authorized personnel have access to sensitive data. This includes using role-based access controls and regularly reviewing access permissions.This is to be achieved with Zero Trust Architecture.
3. Encryption
   • Encrypting data at rest and in transit is a fundamental safeguard. This protects personal data from unauthorized access, even if there is a data breach.
4. Regular Security Audits
   • Conducting regular security audits and assessments helps identify vulnerabilities and ensures compliance with established security protocols.
5. Incident Response Plan
   • Organizations should have a comprehensive incident response plan in place. This plan should detail the steps to be taken in the event of a data breach, ensuring a prompt and effective response.
6. Employee Training
   • Regular training programs for employees about data privacy and security best practices are essential. Employees are often the first line of defense against data breaches.
7. Third-Party Risk Management
   • Organizations should assess and manage risks associated with third-party vendors that have access to personal data. This includes ensuring that these vendors also comply with reasonable security safeguards.

The implementation of reasonable security safeguards, as outlined in Rule 6 of the DPDP Rules, 2025, is vital for protecting personal data. By adopting a risk-based approach and incorporating comprehensive security measures, organizations can significantly mitigate the risks associated with data privacy breaches, ensuring the trust and confidence of individuals in how their data is handled.

Fiduciaries must also ensure contractual safeguards with data processors and implement technical and organizational measures to uphold security standards. Regular audits and due diligence further strengthen the data protection framework.

The emphasis on security measures is critical in an era marked by increasing cybersecurity threats. By mandating such safeguards, the DPDP Rules address risks posed by data breaches and cyberattacks, ensuring that organizations prioritize user data protection. This comprehensive approach to security not only protects individuals but also fortifies the overall integrity of the digital ecosystem.

Ultimately, the technical safeguards for securing Personal data should be adopted, inlcuding:

• Encryption, obfuscation, or masking of personal data.
• Measures to control access to computer resources and monitor unauthorized activities.
• Retention of logs for at least one year to enable detection, investigation, and remediation of security breaches.

Enhanced security safeguards minimize risks of data breaches and build user trust. Engaging legal experts ensures that organizations implement and maintain these safeguards, reducing vulnerabilities and fostering compliance.

To know more, you may connect with dataprivacy@amlegals.com.