What is “data minimization” and how does it apply to email?

Data minimization means collecting only the personal data necessary for your specific purposes. For email, this might mean collecting only email address and explicit preferences rather than extensive demographic or behavioral data.

Applied to email, data minimization suggests limiting tracking to what genuinely improves recipient experience. Collecting data simply because you can, without clear use case, violates the principle.

GDPR explicitly requires data minimization. Even where not legally required, the principle supports ethical practice and reduces risk from data breaches or regulatory changes.