I realise this is mostly about the Lena image but to answer the question "Can data die?", I think the answer is Yes, but only if it is permanently erased or con

I realise this is mostly about the Lena image but to answer the question "Can data die?", I think the answer is Yes, but only if it is permanently erased or contained in a medium that is rendered verifiably and permanently inaccessible. For as long as it remains accessible, data remains 'alive'. There are technical measures that can ensure data is permanently erased or made permanently inaccessible, but both need the backing of good legislation, otherwise they will never happen. I agree with sersi that this image is a historical artefact and a case can be made that it should be treated differently but overall, legislation mandating time limits on data would be a good thing. The problem is how would you enforce such legislation? It's so easy to make copies of data and so easy to hide said copies. Perhaps the real issue is the public or commercial use of unconsented data. Putting an end to that would be a good thing. The conundrum about this particular case is that Lena, the data subject, does not consent to the use of her image but the owner of the image (presumably) does. Is this something a judge should resolve?