Which framework is often applied to ensure data privacy and protection in cloud computing environments?

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a comprehensive framework enacted by the European Union to provide guidelines and regulations concerning the collection and processing of personal data. It is especially relevant to cloud computing environments, where data is often stored and processed in various locations and by different service providers.

GDPR emphasizes the importance of data privacy and the rights of individuals to control their personal information. It sets out specific requirements for data protection, such as the necessity for consent before processing personal data, the right to access and erase data, and the requirement to report data breaches within a particular timeframe. By establishing these standards, GDPR aims to enhance data protection for individuals and ensures that organizations operating in cloud environments implement adequate measures to safeguard personal data against unauthorized access or breaches.

While other frameworks such as ISO 27001 and the NIST Cybersecurity Framework do contribute to broader information security practices and risk management, GDPR specifically targets the legal and privacy implications of data handling, making it the most relevant choice when focusing on data privacy and protection in cloud computing. COBIT, on the other hand, is primarily focused on IT governance and management rather than solely on data privacy.