What is the likely consequence of failing to specify a retention period for personal information?

Failing to specify a retention period for personal information can lead to compliance issues. Many data protection regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), require organizations to not retain personal information longer than necessary for the purpose for which it was collected. Without a defined retention period, there is a risk of retaining data indefinitely, which can result in legal repercussions, fines, or penalties for non-compliance. Furthermore, organizations may struggle to demonstrate their data management policies and adherence to legal requirements, leading to a lack of accountability and trust from clients and stakeholders. Consequently, establishing clear retention periods is critical to ensure compliance with relevant data protection laws and to maintain proper governance of personal data.