The explicit and voluntary agreement to participate in an activity or allow data to be collected or used. Consent can be withdrawn at any time and should be regularly checked in on, as it is not always verbal. It ensures informed decision-making and respect for personal autonomy.

Consent is a fundamental principle in both data practices and interpersonal interactions. Ensuring informed, meaningful consent in tech systems, particularly in the handling of data from historically oppressed communities, is crucial to reduce harm and respect data sovereignty. Consent must be ongoing, not a one-time agreement.