Not All Data Is Created Equal. Personal data falls into two categories, each carrying different levels of risk and requiring distinct protection strategies. This article explores the classification, real-world examples, and effective digital security solutions in today’s age of online verification and identity theft.
In today’s digital world, personal data is one of our most valuable assets. Yet many individuals and organizations still treat all personal data the same — believing a password or firewall is enough to keep everything safe. In reality, it’s far more complex.
Personal data is categorized into two major types: general personal data and specific (sensitive) personal data. Each type has different characteristics, risk levels, and protection requirements. Your full name and email address fall under general data. But biometric information, medical records, and real-time location are considered specific — and far more sensitive.
Ignoring this distinction creates serious vulnerabilities. If specific data is leaked, the consequences go beyond financial loss — they can damage your business’s credibility and reputation. In this article, we break down the classifications, the risks involved, and modern security practices — including biometric authentication and multi-layer encryption provided by platforms like Beeza.
Why You Can’t Use a One-Size-Fits-All Approach to Personal Data Security
Many still believe that as long as data is encrypted or password-protected, it’s safe. Unfortunately, that “one size fits all” approach is dangerously outdated. Data carries different levels of sensitivity, and each level demands tailored security measures.
What Is General Personal Data?
According to Indonesia’s Personal Data Protection Law (UU PDP), general personal data refers to information that can identify an individual but is unlikely to cause serious harm if exposed. Examples include:
- Full name
- Email address
- Phone number
- Nationality
- Occupation
This type of data is commonly found on online forms or social media profiles. While it may seem harmless, when aggregated with other data, the potential for misuse increases.
Harmless at a Glance, but a Tool for Social Engineering
Cybercriminals often exploit general data in social engineering attacks — for example, using someone’s full name and company name to impersonate them in phishing emails. Once the victim trusts the message, the attacker proceeds to manipulate them into giving access to more sensitive systems.
What Is Specific (Sensitive) Personal Data?
Specific personal data refers to information that, if exposed, can cause significant physical, financial, or psychological harm. This includes:
- Biometric data (fingerprints, face scans)
- Genetic data and medical records
- Detailed financial data
- Sexual preferences
- Real-time location
- Children’s identity information
- Religious and belief information
This data type is frequently used in e-KYC services, healthcare systems, or digital payment apps. When leaked, it can be exploited for fraud, discrimination, or even transnational cybercrime.
Real-World Disasters from Leaked Sensitive Data
One major case involved hospital medical records being leaked on the dark web. Thousands of identities were stolen and used for fake loan applications and insurance claims. In Indonesia, reports once surfaced of leaked biometric data from fintech apps due to unencrypted authentication systems — highlighting the extreme vulnerability of specific data.
Biometric Data Can’t Be Reset Like a Password
Unlike a password or PIN, you can’t change your face or fingerprint. Biometrics are permanent identity markers. Once leaked, there’s no undoing the damage. That’s why storing and transmitting biometric data must use advanced encryption and layered authorization technologies.
Specific Data Has Higher Legal Protection Under Indonesian Law
Indonesia’s PDP Law treats specific data with stricter protection. Digital system operators must follow key principles, such as:
- Explicit consent from data owners
- Adequate technical security systems
- Regular audits
- Data breach notification within 72 hours
But legislation alone isn’t enough — strong technological implementation is crucial.
General vs. Specific Data Requires Different Security Measures
General data might only require two-factor authentication (2FA). Meanwhile, specific data demands biometric authentication, end-to-end encryption, and contextual access control. This combination ensures digital verification remains both efficient and secure.
Beeza: Secure Digital Verification Backed by Trusted Technology
As a trusted digital verification provider, Beeza offers advanced features tailored for both general and specific personal data:
- Liveness Detection: Ensures real users are present during verification — not video replays.
- Face Match AI: Matches facial data in real-time without permanently storing biometric information.
- Secure Digital Signatures: Guarantees document authenticity with no forgery risks.
- Multi-Layer Encryption & PDP Compliance: Beeza’s system meets national and international security standards.
With Beeza, businesses don’t just meet regulatory requirements — they build real trust with users.
Know Your Data, Choose the Right Tools, and Avoid Costly Mistakes
The biggest mistake in the digital age is assuming all data can be protected the same way. By understanding data categories, associated risks, and the appropriate solutions, businesses can safeguard their reputation and prevent costly security incidents.
Secure Your Digital Verification with Beeza Today
Don’t wait until sensitive data leaks to take action. Protect your users’, customers’, and partners’ personal information with biometric authentication, multi-layer encryption, and smart digital onboarding powered by Beeza.Visit beeza.id today and discover the most secure, fast, and reliable way to verify identities in the online era.