Definition
The Swiss Data Protection Act (DPA) is Switzerland’s federal law governing the protection and processing of personal data by private and public entities.
Context
The Swiss DPA is highly relevant in the context of internal investigations, forensic evidence handling, and IT controls. It is closely aligned with international frameworks such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and influences data access, logging, and retention practices.
Meaning
Compliance with the Swiss DPA is mandatory and defines how personal data must be collected, processed, and protected, particularly in investigative and control environments.
Example
Restricting access to employee data during an internal investigation.
Suggested citation
wirtschaftsforensik.ch Editorial Team: "Swiss Data Protection Act (DPA)", in: Glossary, wirtschaftsforensik.ch, https://wirtschaftsforensik.ch/glossar/swiss-data-protection-act-dpa/, accessed April 18, 2026.