The main steps for GDPR compliance

THE General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a European law that strives to protect the personal data of EU citizens. Since its entry into force in May 2018, businesses of all sizes are required to comply with this regulation or face severe penalties. This article outlines the essential steps to comply with the GDPR.

1 Appointment of a Data Protection Officer (DPO)

The DPO is a central figure in GDPR compliance. They are the guarantor of GDPR compliance within the company and will be the primary contact for supervisory authorities. Appointing a DPO is mandatory for public bodies, organizations that conduct regular large-scale monitoring, or that process sensitive data on a large scale.

2 Mapping of data processing

The first task of the DPO is to identify all personal data processing operations carried out by the company. This is a crucial step that provides a clear overview of the company's activities and the potential associated risks.

3 Risk assessment and implementation of protective measures

Once the processing map has been established, the risks for each processing operation must be assessed. If the processing operation presents a high risk to the rights and freedoms of the data subjects, a data protection impact assessment (DPIA) must be carried out. Appropriate data protection measures must then be put in place.

4 Development of a data protection policy

This policy must detail the company's commitments to data protection. It must be easily accessible and understandable to all employees and stakeholders within the company.

5 Consent management

THE GDPR requires that consent for data processing be free, informed, specific and unequivocal. It is therefore necessary to implement a consent management system that complies with these requirements.

6 Preparing procedures in the event of a data breach

In the event of a data breach, the GDPR requires that the supervisory authority be notified within 72 hours. Therefore, the company must have a detailed procedure in place to respond effectively in the event of a breach.

7 Staff training and awareness

GDPR compliance is not just about technical and legal processes; it also involves a significant human dimension. It is therefore crucial to train and raise awareness of these issues among all staff.

8 Verification of subcontractor compliance

If the company uses subcontractors for data processing, it must ensure their compliance with the GDPR. It is therefore essential to include specific clauses in contracts with these subcontractors.

9 Establishment of a review and update process

Compliance with the GDPR is not a one-time action, but an ongoing process. A regular review of existing processes and policies should be carried out to ensure they remain compliant with GDPR requirements, especially in the event of changes in the company's operations.

10 Transparent communication with data subjects

Finally, the GDPR emphasizes individuals' rights regarding personal data. This includes the right to information, the right of access, the right to be forgotten, the right to data portability, and more. Therefore, it is essential to put in place mechanisms to respond to these requests effectively and transparently.

In summary, compliance with the GDPR is a demanding process that requires a comprehensive approach, combining technical, legal, and organizational aspects. While it may seem complex, it also offers a valuable opportunity to improve data governance within the company, build customer and partner trust, and avoid potentially severe penalties. Furthermore, by establishing a culture of respect for privacy and data protection, companies can position themselves as responsible and trustworthy leaders in today's digital economy.