Ensuring a High Level of Data Protection Despite the Increased Exchange of Data*

¹Rapid technological developments and globalisation have brought new challenges for the protection of personal data. ²The scale of the collection and sharing of personal data has increased significantly. ³Technology allows both private companies and public authorities to make use of personal data on an unprecedented scale in order to pursue their activities. ⁴Natural persons increasingly make personal information available publicly and globally. ⁵Technology has transformed both the economy and social life, and should further facilitate the free flow of personal data within the Union and the transfer to third countries and international organisations, while ensuring a high level of the protection of personal data.