Please select True or False for the following statement: Always obtain customers' consent, or 'authorization,' before collecting or accessing their personal information.

The statement is true because obtaining customers' consent before collecting or accessing their personal information is a fundamental principle of privacy and data protection. This consent ensures that individuals have control over their personal data and are informed about how it will be used.

In many jurisdictions, including those governed by laws such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) or the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), obtaining consent is not just good practice but a legal requirement. Customers must be fully aware of what information is being collected, how it will be utilized, and who it may be shared with, enabling them to make an informed decision about their participation.

Failing to obtain consent can lead to various consequences, including loss of customer trust, potential legal actions, and financial penalties, depending on the applicable laws and regulations. Therefore, it is critical for organizations to prioritize obtaining authorization from customers before accessing their personal information.