GENERAL DATA PROTECTION REGULATION (GDPR): ONE YEAR ON – EUROPEAN OVERVIEW ON KEY DEVELOPMENTS

It is the first anniversary of the GDPR. After a stressful finish to May 25, 2018 we were all excited to learn how the authorities would enforce this law which fundamentally changed the rules of data processing within the European Union.

Fortunately, there was no explosion of decisions and fines imposed after the deadline. We recognized that the authorities themselves struggled to be ready for their new tasks within the last year.

However, we would like to take this opportunity to provide you with an overview on the recent developments in the EU member states regarding GDPR. First decisions have been made, fines have been imposed, local law entered into force. This overview on various European countries is rather unique.

Each member state of the EU took a different approach and various main points to bring out.

GDPR is not a project; it is an ongoing process you need to consider in your day-to-day business. Although the authorities did not impose many fines they made clear that they will play tough with respect to companies which ignore data privacy and the rights of the affected persons. One thing is having started but not being ready yet, the other not getting prepared at all. For the latter, severe sanctions are to be expected to provide a deterring example for other businesses, like e.g. the Google case in France. Apart from GDPR, significant adverse marketing effects will need to be considered as well.

Hence, it is never too late for making your company compliant with GDPR and updating your processes.

START TODAY.

Attached you will find our GDPR Newsletter.

Your SCHINDHELM GDPR Team