The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a comprehensive data protection and privacy regulation implemented by the European Union (EU) to safeguard the rights and privacy of individuals regarding their personal data.
Enhanced Privacy Rights: GDPR empowers individuals with greater control over their personal data, including the right to access, rectify, and erase their data.
Consent and Transparency: Organizations must obtain clear and informed consent before processing personal data and provide transparent information about data handling.
Data Breach Notification: GDPR mandates timely notification of data breaches to both affected individuals and regulatory authorities.
Accountability: Organizations are required to demonstrate compliance with GDPR by implementing appropriate measures and documentation.
Lawful Basis: Organizations must have a valid lawful basis for processing personal data, such as consent, contract performance, legal obligation, vital interests, or legitimate interests.
Data Minimization: Only necessary and relevant data should be collected and processed, limiting the scope of data handling.
Purpose Limitation: Personal data should be processed for specific and legitimate purposes, and not used for incompatible reasons.
Data Security: Organizations must implement appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect personal data from unauthorized access, breaches, and loss.
Non-compliance with GDPR can result in significant penalties, including fines of up to €20 million or 4% of the global annual turnover, whichever is higher.
Although originated in the EU, GDPR has a global impact, as it applies to organizations outside the EU that process personal data of EU residents.
GDPR serves as a landmark regulation for data protection and privacy, emphasizing individual rights and organizational responsibility. By adhering to its principles, organizations can ensure the proper handling of personal data, maintain customer trust, and avoid legal and financial consequences.