Peter Magyar’s Data Scandal Could Constitute a Criminal Offense

A political party may have committed a criminal offense by failing to properly protect personal data stored electronically — according to a statement from the National Authority for Data Protection and Freedom of Information (NAIH). The authority emphasized that even media reports and opinion pieces about the case must comply with general data protection rules, balancing press freedom with the right to privacy.

The Tisza Vilag app (Photo: Krisztian Mate)

Privacy Must Be Respected

The NAIH stressed that while individuals may have disclosed some personal data themselves — such as political opinions — other details, including home addresses or phone numbers, remain illegal for media outlets to distribute.

Data handlers must exercise extreme caution and respect individuals’ right to private and family life, avoiding any harassing or intrusive use of personal data. 

Media organizations may store personal data related to a breach only temporarily and only if they can prove that such processing complies with GDPR. The NAIH made clear that these standards also apply to public figures who use leaked information in the course of expressing their opinions.

Cover photo: The Tisza Vilag app (Photo: Krisztian Mate)