Which federal law restricts law enforcement's ability to collect personal data?

The Privacy Act of 1974 is pivotal in safeguarding personal data by establishing parameters around the collection, use, and dissemination of personal information held by federal agencies. This law was introduced to ensure that individuals have rights regarding their personal information, including the right to access records about themselves, request corrections, and be informed about how their data is being used. It restricts federal agencies from disclosing personal information without consent unless specifically exempted, thus creating a significant barrier to data collection practices that could infringe on personal privacy.

In contrast, the Freedom of Information Act primarily focuses on ensuring public access to government records and does not specifically restrict personal data collection. The Patriot Act, enacted after September 11, 2001, expanded the government's surveillance powers and does not focus on limiting the collection of personal data. Similarly, the Crime Control Act, while addressing various issues related to crime and law enforcement, does not center on personal data privacy restrictions. Hence, the Privacy Act of 1974 stands out as the law explicitly designed to protect personal data from unwarranted collection by law enforcement and federal entities.