What is the main idea behind storage limitation in data protection?

The main idea behind storage limitation in data protection is that personal data should be retained only for as long as is necessary to fulfill the purposes for which it was collected. This principle is vital for ensuring that organizations do not keep data longer than needed, thereby reducing the risk of unauthorized access, data breaches, and privacy violations. By limiting the duration of data storage, organizations can better protect individuals' privacy and comply with regulatory requirements, which often stipulate that personal data must be disposed of securely once it is no longer needed for its intended purpose.

The other options do not align with this principle. Storing data indefinitely for record-keeping contradicts the essence of storage limitation, which emphasizes the necessity of purpose. Keeping data accessible at all times for any purpose overlooks the importance of accountability and individuals' rights regarding their data. Lastly, claiming that data storage duration is irrelevant completely misses the crucial aspect of responsible data management outlined in data protection regulations.