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Governance, Risk, Audit & Privacy · Foundational

Data Mapping

Documenting what personal data an organization holds, where it resides, how it flows, who accesses it, and why.

Definition

Data mapping (data inventory and data flow mapping) supports ROPAs, DSAR fulfillment, DPIAs, breach response, and transfer analysis. Automated discovery tools scan systems to find and classify personal data. Maps must be maintained as systems change.

Example

A data map shows customer emails flow from the web form to the CRM, the email service provider, and a US analytics vendor.

Exam tip

Data inventory and mapping are usually the first step in building a privacy program.

Related terms