GDPR sets the global standard for data privacy, requiring organizations worldwide to protect EU residents' personal data regardless of where processing occurs.
Why it matters
- Non-compliance risks fines up to €20M or 4% of global annual revenue.
- Applies to any organization processing EU residents' data, regardless of location.
- Data breaches must be reported within 72 hours to authorities.
- Customers can request data deletion, portability, and access to their information.
- Privacy violations damage brand reputation and customer trust.
Key requirements
- Lawful basis: Explicit consent or legitimate interest for data processing.
- Data minimization: Collect only what's necessary for stated purposes.
- Privacy by design: Build privacy protections into systems from the start.
- Data protection officer: Required for large-scale processing operations.
- Breach notification: 72-hour reporting requirement to supervisory authorities.
- Subject rights: Access, rectification, erasure, portability, and objection.
- International transfers: Adequate safeguards for data leaving the EU.
Implementation checklist
- Conduct data mapping and inventory.
- Update privacy policies and consent mechanisms.
- Implement data subject rights procedures.
- Establish breach notification workflows.
- Document processing activities and legal basis.
- Review vendor contracts for data processing agreements.
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