How should agencies engage individuals regarding their PII according to FIPP principles?

Engaging individuals regarding their personally identifiable information (PII) in accordance with Fair Information Practice Principles (FIPPs) involves actively involving them in the consent process. This means that individuals should have the opportunity to provide informed consent before their PII is collected or used. Involvement in the consent process empowers individuals, allowing them to understand what data is being collected, for what purposes, and how it will be used, thereby fostering trust and transparency between the agencies and the individuals they serve. This proactive approach ensures that individuals are not only aware of data practices but also have a say in how their personal information is handled, aligning with the principles of respect for individual privacy.

In contrast, waiting until after PII has been processed, notifying individuals post data collection, or limiting their access to their own data does not support the spirit of consent and transparency that FIPPs advocate for. These alternatives can lead to a lack of trust and understanding, and do not prioritize the individual's right to control their own information.