What is Personal Data? Our Digital Footprint in 10 Basic Categories

We constantly share data when using the internet, shopping or filling out job application forms. So, exactly which of our information falls within the scope of "personal data"? Let's get to know our existence in the digital world more closely by examining this concept, which lies at the basis of laws and digital security, under 10 main headings.

Definition of Personal Data

In its simplest terms, personal data; It is any information that makes a person directly or indirectly identifiable. This includes not only your name, but also all kinds of technical and social information that helps you stand out from the crowd.

1. Identity Information: Our Basic Asset

It is the simplest information that identifies us in front of official authorities and society. Name-surname, date and place of birth, parents' names, gender and marital status.

2. Personal Information: Our Professional History

These are the data that determine our existence and legal status in our business life. Curriculum Vitae (CV), professional experiences, SSI statements, disciplinary penalties and criminal record information.

3. Contact Data: Accessibility

They are the doors that allow others to reach us. Telephone number, residence address, e-mail address and KEP address used for official correspondence.

4. Financial Data: Economic Portrait

They are sensitive information that reflects our economic strength and financial habits. Salary and earnings information, spending and tax data, bank account transactions, credit card information and credit score.

5. Transaction Security: Digital Fingerprint

These are the technical traces we leave behind when we connect to the Internet or a network. IP address, device IMEI number, MAC address, SSID and Bluetooth ID information.

6. Physical Space Security: Observable Area

It is the data recorded in the environments where we are physically present. Security camera records, workplace entry-exit (turnstile) records and vehicle license plate.

7. Marketing Information: Preferences and Habits

They are data that show how we act in the world of consumption. Shopping history, survey responses, cookie records and campaign preferences.

8. Visual and Audio Records: Biometric Reflections

They are media data in which our existence is directly recorded. Photographs, security camera audio recordings and images, interview or event recordings.

9. Communication Records: Communication Traffic

It shows our intensity and method of using communication tools. Corporate phone call details, e-mail correspondence contents and internet access logs.

10. Location Data: Location and Movement

Coordinate information that determines where we are in time. Location information from GPS data, HGS/OGS transit points and meal card spending.

Conclusion: Why Should We Know?

These 10 categories define the boundaries of our privacy in the modern world. Knowing which category our data is in allows us to better defend our rights (such as KVKK) and decide what and how much to share on digital platforms.

Remember:The data you cannot control is not yours.

This article has been prepared to raise awareness of the protection of personal data.