A more thorough explanation:

Definition: Personal information refers to any data that can be used to identify an individual, such as name, address, email, social security number, financial information, and IP address. The right of privacy protects an individual's ability to control what personal information is collected and how it is used.

For example, when you visit a commercial website, you may be asked to provide personal information such as your name and email address. This information is often collected through forms and cookies, and may be shared with third parties for marketing purposes. The federal government and financial institutions also collect personal information, which can be a target for fraud and identity theft.

To protect individuals' privacy, laws such as the Privacy Act of 1974, the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act, the Fair Credit Reporting Act, and the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act have been established. These laws require organizations to disclose their information collection practices, provide opt-out opportunities, and develop safeguards to protect collected information.

However, not all organizations are bound by these laws, and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) encourages a voluntary regime of protecting consumer privacy. Unfortunately, many websites and organizations do not adequately inform consumers about their collection practices or protect their personal information.

Overall, personal information is a valuable asset that should be protected, and individuals have the right to control how their information is collected and used.