4,237 violations - Hamburg's new negative record
More data breaches than ever before: Hamburg recorded over 4,000 reported cases in 2024 - a bitter record. In times of artificial intelligence, facial recognition and social networks, personal data seems to be more at risk than ever. Hamburg's data protection officer Thomas Fuchs is sounding the alarm - not only because of the figures, but also because of political indifference.
What used to sound like a side note is now a reality: data protection is no longer a niche issue, but a core social problem.
From peeping toms to police officers: real-life data protection breaches
A look at the fine statistics shows that it is not only large tech companies that violate data protection rules. The approximately 1.2 million euros in fines imposed also include offenders who use smartphones to film women without being asked - a perfidious transgression that, according to Fuchs, is punished with fines of between 500 and 1,500 euros.
And it goes even deeper: police officers privately rummaging through databases to find out more about their Tinder acquaintances - a clear abuse of their powers. Such incidents show how easily personal data can be turned into a commodity or a pawn - even in the public sector.
Facial recognition and meta plans: is there a threat of loss of control?
Fuchs is particularly critical of the current use of facial recognition technologies. What is supposed to be used to fight crime in theory can quickly turn into mass surveillance in practice. Fuchs urgently warns against a "coarse handling" of terms and demands in the political debate - especially towards Berlin. The discussion needs to be more nuanced, because: "You really have to be very precise in this area."
Mark Zuckerberg's plans for meta-platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp are also a cause for concern for data privacy advocates. The company has announced far-reaching changes - including in the interaction between AI and communication. Fuchs fears that algorithmic decisions and a lack of control could lead to a renewed loss of digital control. The warning is clear: "We need to take a very close look at what is happening."
LEGAL DATA says:
Data protection is often laughed at - until it hits you. The figures from Hamburg show that it has long been five past twelve. When even police officers are helping themselves to data and tech giants like Meta are using ever new AI gadgets to screen our communications, more than warm words are needed.
We say: data protection is not a brake pad, but the airbag of the digital society. But an airbag that is not maintained will not help anyone in an emergency.
Our appeal: Anyone who constantly talks about reducing bureaucracy should not forget that we are then also reducing ourselves - at least our rights. Data protection must be explained simply and enforced - with clear rules and tangible penalties. Otherwise, not only Zuckerberg and co. will end up doing what they want - but also the neighbor with the cell phone on the train.
