The 8 mistakes to avoid when complying with GDPR
The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) came into effect in 2018 and applies to all companies processing personal data of European citizens. It aims to protect individual privacy by imposing strict rules on data collection, processing, and retention.
However, many companies still make compliance mistakes, which can lead to financial penalties and damage their reputation. Here are the 8 most common mistakes to avoid.
1. Not understanding the fundamental principles of GDPR
The GDPR relies on on several foundations keys :
- Legality, loyalty and transparency : data must be collected lawfully and transparently.
- Limitation of purposes : they must be used only for the defined purpose.
- Data reduction: collect only essential information.
- Data Accuracy : ensure that information is regularly updated.
- Security and Privacy : protect data from any breach.
Failure to comply with these principles may result in incomplete compliance and penalties.
2. Abstain of appoint a data protection officer (DPO) when that East required
In some cases, the designation of a DPO is mandatory, especially for companies handling sensitive data on a large scale. This professional plays a key role in GDPR compliance by ensuring compliance and advising the organization.
Ignoring this obligation can complicate data management and expose the company to fines.
3. Avoid establishing a policy for the management of personal data
A data management policy helps structure how data is collected, processed, and stored. It should include:
- Types of data collected
- The purposes of the processing
- Retention periods
- The security measures applied
Without this policy, companies risk a lack of transparency and being penalized.
4. Collecting data without valid consent
THE GDPR required A agreement clear for all acquisition of personal data. This means that:
- The user must give his or her consent in a clear and informed manner.
- Pre-checked boxes are not valid.
- The user must be able to rto evoke his consent at any time.
Failure to comply with these rules can result in heavy penalties.
5. Neglecting user rights
The GDPR grants various rights to individuals:
- Right of access : request a copy of stored data
- Right of rectification : correct incorrect information
- Right to be forgotten : TO DO a request For to erase his data
- Right to portability : transfer your data to another service
Companies must put in place effective processes to respond to these requests within one month.
6. Failure to secure personal data
Data breaches can have significant repercussions. It is essential of put in place of the devices of security such that :
- Data encryption
- Restricted access to sensitive information
- Regular backups
- Security system updates
Failure to comply with these obligations may result in cyber attacks and data loss.
7. Neglect THE responsibilities in the event of a data breach
When he y has a intrusion data, the GDPR requires a communication mandatory to the CNIL in a lapse of time 72 hours. If the breach poses a risk to the individuals concerned, they must also be informed.
Failure to report a violation can result in fines and damage to the company's reputation.
8. Failure to maintain compliance documentation
GDPR compliance is a continuous process. It is essential to keep up to date:
- THE data processing register
- Privacy Impact Assessments
- Internal policies and employee training
Regular monitoring helps anticipate regulatory changes and guarantee lasting compliance.
FAQ
Which companies must comply with GDPR?
Any company processing personal data of European citizens, regardless of its location.How determine if my company is GDPR compliant?
A compliance audit can help identify gaps and put in place necessary measures.What are the risks of non-compliance with the GDPR?
Companies face fines of up to 20 million euros Or 4 % of global annual turnover.Does GDPR apply to companies outside the EU?
Yes, as soon as a company targets users located in the European Union.How to incite its employees to data protection?
By organizing regular training and implementing good security practices.