What this control covers
Prohibits processing special categories of personal data (e.g., racial, health, biometric) unless based on explicit consent, legal obligations, vital interests, or public interest with safeguards. This control addresses Data Classification.
Why it matters
Risk is the language an executive team understands; this control connects technical reality to board-level decisions and budget allocation.
How to implement
AWS
Codify the policy intent as SCPs, AWS Config conformance packs, and Security Hub standards so the cloud enforces what the document says.
Azure
Codify in Azure Policy initiatives (built-in regulatory compliance for CIS, ISO 27001, SOC 2, HIPAA) and assign at management-group level.
Google Workspace
Use Data Export (Takeout-style) and Vault search to scope DSARs. Apply Drive labels + DLP so personal data classes are discoverable.
On-premises
Maintain a policy library with a documented review cadence (annual minimum); store in your GRC tool with attestation tracking. Map each policy to controls so an audit pull cites the exact policy clause.
Evidence to collect
policy_document— A signed, version-controlled policy stating leadership intent and the named owner.
Signed policy or standard documents the safeguard. Focus: Processing of special categories of personal data.
Quick checklist
- Principles — Consent / Legal Obligations
- Data — Consent / Legal Obligations
- Safeguards — Consent / Legal Obligations
- Obligations — Consent / Legal Obligations