Proxy
What does proxy mean?
A proxy is an intermediary server or service that acts on behalf of another device, user, or system to perform a function, such as accessing content, transmitting data, or submitting requests. In digital privacy and cybersecurity, proxies are often used to mask the original source of a request or to manage network traffic.
How does proxy work?
A proxy server sits between the user and the internet. When a user sends a request (e.g., to access a website), the proxy intercepts it and forwards it to the intended destination, then sends the response back to the user. Proxies may:
- Hide user IP addresses for anonymity
- Filter content or restrict access based on rules
- Log or monitor traffic for security or compliance purposes
- Bypass geo-restrictions or firewalls
- Load balance across multiple servers
In the data privacy context, a proxy is highly relevant in multiple scenarios involving data access, anonymity, consent, and legal representation. Here are the key ways proxies are used:
- Acting on behalf of a data subject - can be a person or organization authorized to act on someone’s behalf in privacy-related matters, especially for:
- Data subject access requests (DSARs) e.g., in laws like the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), an authorized agent (proxy) can submit access, deletion, or opt-out requests for someone else.
- Parental rights - in cases involving children, a parent or guardian acts as a proxy when making privacy decisions or exercising rights.
- Anonymizing internet traffic - server that can hide a user’s IP address and location, supporting privacy by:
- Preventing tracking and profiling
- Protecting personal data from websites or third parties
- Allowing access to geo-restricted content without revealing identity
This kind of proxy is especially relevant in discussions around online tracking, cookies, and consent mechanisms.
- Bypassing surveillance or restrictions - in jurisdictions with strict surveillance or content control, proxies are used to:
- Circumvent firewalls or censorship
- Maintain privacy in online communications This is sometimes critical for whistleblowers, journalists, or activists.
- Legal and regulatory representation - in regulatory contexts, a proxy can be:
- A DPO (Data Protection Officer) or privacy consultant acting on behalf of a company
- A legal proxy for businesses dealing with international data transfers, where local representation is required (e.g. under the GDPR for non-EU businesses)
FAQs about proxy
Not quite. While both mask IP addresses, VPNs encrypt the entire internet connection, whereas proxies typically only reroute specific application traffic.
Yes, some proxies are used to bypass security restrictions or hide criminal activity. This is why organizations implement controls to detect and manage unauthorized proxy use.
Yes, using a proxy is legal in most jurisdictions. However, its use must comply with relevant data protection and cybersecurity laws.
Proxies can log traffic and help organizations monitor data flow, restrict access to unauthorized content, and enforce internal policies, which are key components of privacy compliance.
Not always. Poorly configured or free proxies may expose user data or be vulnerable to interception.