Sensitive Data — ResGuard

Key Concept 2 — Sensitive Data

Some data can cause serious harm if misused — the law protects it more strictly.

Sensitive data (also called special categories of personal data) can lead to discrimination, exclusion or other serious harm. The categories differ between laws, so always check your local list.

What is typically sensitive

Health data, including sick notes, disabilities and vaccination status
Racial or ethnic origin, religious and political beliefs
Trade union membership, sexual life and orientation
Genetic and biometric data, e.g. fingerprints for time recording
Often treated with similar care: criminal records, financial data, national ID numbers and data about children

What this means in practice: stricter conditions such as explicit or written consent, stronger security, access only for those who need it, and in many laws a risk assessment before you start.

Sensitive data in your jurisdiction

Switzerland

Religious, philosophical, political or trade union views or activities
Health, the intimate sphere, racial or ethnic origin
Genetic data
Biometric data that identify a person
Data on administrative and criminal proceedings or sanctions
Data on social assistance measures

Sensitive personal data (Art. 5 FADP). Where consent is required, it must be explicit, and disclosing sensitive data to third parties needs a justification.