What obligation do organizations have to protect consumer data?

Organizations have a significant obligation to protect consumer data, primarily by taking reasonable measures to prevent unauthorized access and breaches. This responsibility stems from ethical considerations and legal requirements designed to safeguard personal information. By implementing adequate security protocols, such as data encryption, access controls, and regular audits, organizations aim to fulfill their duty to protect the privacy and integrity of consumer data.

This ethical framework ensures that consumers can trust organizations with their sensitive information, enhancing the overall relationship between businesses and their customers. Additionally, many jurisdictions have enacted laws that mandate specific security practices for handling personal data, reinforcing the expectation that organizations must act responsibly in this regard.

In contrast, the other options present misconceptions about data protection responsibilities, such as permitting data sales without consent or limiting accountability only to instances of data breach. These options do not align with the ethical standards and legal frameworks that govern data privacy and consumer protection.