WOB Request and Privacy: Important Information

Questioner

Is it true that if a Wob request is granted, all file information that is sent to me will then also be publicly accessible to everyone, for example on the internet? Even if this concerns privacy-sensitive information regarding personal data? So you would never be able to request your own file(s) or does the JW make an exception here?

Lawyer

In a WOB request, anyone can request government information. However, it is up to the party to withhold certain information if this concerns privacy-sensitive information. Of course, they must make this known. WOB requests are linked to certain procedures that the agency must adhere to. And as for the publicity of files or certain documents, it is already public to such an extent that it cannot be requested. If privacy-sensitive data is released or placed online, the party involved can file a report for privacy violation.