What does GDPR mean for brands?
The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR in French or General Data Protection Regulation in English) is a European regulation. Since May 2018, it defines the rights and obligations of companies regarding the collection and processing of personal data.
It provides a unique legal framework for professionals by harmonizing European rules. This will enable them to develop their digital business in the EU based on consumer trust.
Who is affected by the GDPR?
The General Data Protection Regulation applies to all organisations, public or private, whether or not they process personal data on their behalf, provided that :
- They are established in the European Union.
- Or that their activities are directly directed towards European citizens.
For example, a French company exporting all its products to Morocco for its customers in the Middle East must comply with the Data Protection Regulation.
Similarly, a company operating in China and owning a French e-commerce site and supplying products to France must also comply with the GDPR.
Therefore, if you process or collect data on behalf of another organisation (company, society or association), you have specific obligations to ensure the protection of the data entrusted to you.
How can RGPD be implemented in your company?
Setting up a data register
Establishing a data processing register is one of the first steps that can be taken in a company to ensure compliance with the Data Protection Directive. This will give you an overview of how information is used.
Data classification to ensure compliance with the RGPD in the company
Once a census has been conducted and a list of processing activities has been created, companies that want to comply with the provisions of the Data Protection Directive should set up a system to limit the collection of personal data to what is absolutely necessary.
Companies should sort all collected data by deleting redundant data and/or verifying that no sensitive data is stored and deleting information whose retention period has expired.
Protection of individual rights
The protection of individual rights is one of the most important aspects of the Data Protection Directive for businesses. Specifically, it imposes an obligation to inform and ensure transparency for those whose data is being processed.
In addition, companies must facilitate the exercise of the rights of individuals whose data is being processed. Right of access, objection, rectification or erasure…. All remedies must be unambiguous and effective.
Ensuring data security
A company’s compliance with the GDPR also means that appropriate measures must be taken to secure the data collected. This is to reduce the risk of hacking or data loss, as there is zero risk.
These measures should be more or less stringent, depending on the sensitivity of the information being processed. They should also be assessed according to the level of risk to individuals in the event of a leak.
Staff training in the RGPD
As part of compliance with the RGPD, it is important to train employees regardless of department or position. This will ensure that the management team understands the regulatory challenges. In addition to that, the team will comply with the changes that will be implemented.
If you enjoyed this article, please check out this website to learn more about GDPR and make sure to read my article about cookie consent.
