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What Is Privacy Policy?
Legal & Compliance
Updated 18 September 2026
Quick Answer
A privacy policy is a legal document explaining how a business collects, uses, and protects personal data — a legal requirement for most websites collecting any personal information.
Privacy Policy vs. Terms and Conditions — What's the Difference?
| Privacy Policy | Terms and Conditions | |
|---|---|---|
| Covers | Specifically how personal data is collected and used | The broader rules governing use of a website or service |
Why It Matters
- It's a legal requirement in most regions for any website collecting personal data, including through a simple contact form.
- It also builds visitor trust by transparently explaining how their information will be handled.
How It Works
- A business documents what personal data it collects and why.
- It explains how that data is stored, used, and protected, and what rights individuals have over it.
- This document is published, typically linked in a website's footer.
Key Takeaways
- A privacy policy explains how a business collects, uses, and protects personal data.
- It's a legal requirement for most websites collecting any personal information.
- It should accurately reflect what the specific business actually does, not just a generic template.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does every website need a privacy policy?
Yes, in most regions, if the site collects any personal data at all, including through a simple contact form or analytics tracking.
Can I use a generic privacy policy template?
A template can be a helpful starting point, but it should be reviewed and adjusted to accurately reflect what your specific business actually collects and does.
Where should a privacy policy be linked?
Typically in a website's footer, so it's accessible from every page.