The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a European Union (EU) law enacted to protect the privacy and personal data of EU citizens. Implemented on May 25, 2018, GDPR establishes strict guidelines for data collection, storage, processing, and transfer, with severe penalties for non-compliance.
1. Key Objectives of GDPR
- Enhance individual privacy rights
- Strengthen data security and accountability
- Ensure transparency in data processing
- Provide individuals with control over their personal data
2. Core Principles of GDPR
A. Lawfulness, Fairness, and Transparency
Organizations must process personal data legally, fairly, and transparently, informing users about data collection and usage.
B. Purpose Limitation
Data must be collected for specific, explicit, and legitimate purposes and not used for unrelated reasons.
C. Data Minimization
Only necessary data should be collected and retained.
D. Accuracy
Organizations must ensure data accuracy and timely updates.
E. Storage Limitation
Personal data should not be kept longer than necessary for the intended purpose.
F. Integrity and Confidentiality
Data must be securely stored and protected against unauthorized access, breaches, or loss.
G. Accountability
Organizations are responsible for demonstrating compliance with GDPR regulations.
3. Rights of Data Subjects
A. Right to Access
Individuals can request access to their personal data and how it is being processed.
B. Right to Rectification
The right to correct inaccurate or incomplete data.
C. Right to Erasure (Right to be Forgotten)
Individuals can request the deletion of their data under specific circumstances.
D. Right to Data Portability
The ability to transfer personal data to another service provider.
E. Right to Restrict Processing
Limiting data processing under certain conditions.
F. Right to Object
Individuals can object to data processing for marketing or profiling purposes.
4. GDPR Compliance Requirements
Conduct Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs)
Appoint a Data Protection Officer (DPO)
Implement data encryption and security measures
Maintain detailed records of data processing activities
Report data breaches within 72 hours
5. Penalties for Non-Compliance
- Fines up to €20 million or 4% of global annual turnover, whichever is higher.
- Loss of customer trust and reputational damage.