To address the issues of personal data and information security, Data Protection by Design (“DPbD”) for information and communications technology (“ICT”) systems is an approach where data protection measures are considered and incorporated into ICT systems during their development. By integrating data protection principles from the outset, organizations can build systems that better safeguard personal data and foster a culture of good data management practices. Ensuring DPbD at the beginning and throughout the lifecycle of an ICT system also helps to minimize unnecessary delays and reduce costs, compared to retrofitting data protection features afterward. DPbD should not be treated as an afterthought but rather embedded into an organization's practices.