What is the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)?

The EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a set of laws that set the rules for companies on how they should collect and process personal data from individuals in the EU. It applies to organizations—from individuals to corporations—that are located in the EU, as well as foreign organizations that handle personal data from EU citizens. The GDPR looks to ensure that all personal data, such as names, physical addresses, emails, phone numbers, IP addresses, and credit card information, is stored securely and with respect to the individual’s privacy. It also stipulates how organizations are to collect, store, and use the personal data they collect. Organizations must obtain defined and explicit consent from individuals before collecting data, and they must also inform these individuals how they will use the data. Additionally, they must provide the ways in which an individual can access, change, and delete their personal data. In regards to security, organizations must also set up safeguards and procedures to protect personal data against unauthorized access or loss. Furthermore, organizations must report any data breach to the individuals affected, as well as to their country’s Data Protection Authority. The GDPR applies to businesses in California that handle personal data from the EU. As such, if a California-based organization does any business with the EU, it must comply with the GDPR in order to maintain compliance with state and federal laws. Failure to do so could result in hefty fines and other penalties.

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What is the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)?

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