Under what circumstances can personal data be processed without obtaining consent?

Personal data can be processed without obtaining consent primarily in specific situations defined by data protection laws. One key circumstance is when processing is necessary for compliance with a legal obligation or to protect a person's vital interests. Legal obligations refer to requirements imposed by laws or regulations that mandate the processing of personal data, such as tax laws or labor laws. On the other hand, processing for vital interests is relevant in scenarios where an individual's life or health is at risk, such as in medical emergencies, where obtaining consent may not be feasible.

These exceptions are designed to balance the need for data protection with the necessity of processing data in urgent or legally mandated situations. By permitting these practices, the law ensures that important societal functions, such as health and public safety, can proceed without hindrance, while still protecting individuals' rights in other contexts.