Privacy, data protection & cybersecurity compliance · Working
Joint controller
Also called: joint data controller
ELI5
One of two or more parties jointly determining processing purposes and means under relevant law.
Used in conversation
“Do not describe joint controller as agreed until the operative document says so.”
Pitch context
You will see “Joint controller” in board papers, contracts, policies, risk registers and compliance reports when the discussion reaches privacy, data protection & cybersecurity compliance.
Why it matters: In privacy, data protection & cybersecurity compliance, a loose definition can change rights, obligations, approval, disclosure or enforceability.
Caution
Meaning, enforceability and required process vary by jurisdiction and agreement; this definition is not legal advice.
Sources & evidence · 3
Direct term-level sources and supporting source families.
- National Institute of Standards and Technology — Computer Security Resource Center GlossaryDirect source · primary · checked 2026-08-16
- OECD — G20/OECD Principles of Corporate Governance 2023Supporting source family · institutional · checked 2026-08-16
- U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission — EDGAR and filing resourcesSupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-16