How VA respects your data privacy

Recently, major U.S. companies have come under scrutiny for privacy policies protecting against internal mishandling of digital consumers’ information. With increased congressional and community interest in consumer data and privacy protection, it is important to know how VA protects digital users and Veterans.

VA websites and digital platforms practice a principled approach to user data including principles of Limited Collection, Limited Retention, and Limited Internal Use. VA’s website Privacy Policy states that we only collect user information when necessary and when it is given explicitly by the individual. You can learn more about VA’s principled approach on VA Privacy Service’s Privacy Principles page.

When personal information is explicitly provided and necessary – such as when a Veteran completes a benefits or health form – VA only collects relevant, necessary information. Additionally, Veteran information is handled by the minimum number of parties and is terminated when no longer needed. You can learn more about VA’s ethical data use on DigitalVA.

VA standards also extend to business partners and third-party applications. VA’s digital partners and platforms – like VA mobile apps – are vetted by VA’s Office of Information and Technology to ensure they properly handle user data before being put into use and are continuously monitored once in use.

VA strives to have one of the nation’s strongest frameworks for ethical data practice and privacy for those we serve. You can learn more about our policies and our principled approach to privacy practice through the following link: VA Website Privacy Policy | Veterans Affairs.