A Data Protection Authority (DPA) is an independent public authority responsible for overseeing the enforcement of data protection laws. Its main role is to ensure that individuals' personal data is handled in compliance with regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union. DPAs provide guidance, investigate complaints, and can impose penalties on organizations that violate data protection rules. DPAs also play a crucial role in educating the public about their data rights and the importance of data privacy. They work to promote transparency and accountability among organizations that process personal data, helping to build trust between individuals and businesses in the digital age.