The analysis in this paper starts by declaring the absence of exhaustive normative references in relation to personal data; the “ownership” perspective represents only one piece of a very complex and multifaceted legal paradigm. Alongside the consideration of data as asset – which cannot be taken for granted – there are at least two other inescapable dimensions: the protection of the rights of the owner of information and the principles that must guide administrative action interacting with any such information. An attempt is then made to determine whether and to what extent data held by administrative organs presents homogeneous legal nature and public destination, and the viability of a (para)-dominical status is tested, wondering to whom such data belongs. The paper concludes with some remarks on the need to integrate the three dimensions identified, accepting a flexible conception of “public ownership in a broad sense”.