Which statement best defines data minimization in platform design?

• A. Collecting as much data as possible for every user action.
• B. Storing data indefinitely for all users.
• C. Collecting only the data necessary to accomplish a task.
• D. Sharing all collected data with third parties.

Answer: (C)

Data minimization in platform design means collecting only the information that is strictly necessary to complete a task or provide a service. This approach keeps user information focused on what’s essential, which lowers the risk of exposure and reduces the burden of data management. By limiting what you collect, you also make it easier to protect what you do have and comply with privacy requirements that require purpose limitation and retention limits.

The statement that aligns with this idea is collecting only the data necessary to accomplish a task. It captures the idea of doing just enough to achieve the goal—no extra data collected, no unnecessary tracking, and no extra storage.

Collectors that aim to maximize data collection or preserve data indefinitely run counter to this principle: gathering excessive information increases security risks and makes management more complex. Sharing all collected data with third parties bypasses control and consent, undermining user trust and privacy protections.