GDPR

Definition

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a comprehensive data protection law in the European Union that took effect on May 25, 2018. It aims to enhance individuals' control and rights over their personal data while simplifying the regulatory environment for international business by unifying regulations within the EU. GDPR is crucial for addressing privacy challenges, ensuring that organizations manage and protect personal data responsibly, while also imposing strict penalties for non-compliance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. GDPR applies to all organizations operating within the EU, as well as those outside the EU if they process personal data of EU citizens.
2. Individuals have enhanced rights under GDPR, including the right to be forgotten, which allows them to request the deletion of their personal data under certain conditions.
3. Organizations must obtain explicit consent from individuals before collecting or processing their personal data, and they must provide clear information about how the data will be used.
4. Fines for non-compliance with GDPR can reach up to €20 million or 4% of an organization's global annual revenue, whichever is higher.
5. GDPR requires organizations to implement appropriate technical and organizational measures to ensure the security and confidentiality of personal data.

Review Questions

• How does GDPR enhance individual control over personal data compared to previous regulations?
  • GDPR enhances individual control over personal data by introducing several key rights that empower data subjects. These include the right to access their data, the right to rectify inaccuracies, and the right to erase their data under specific circumstances. This regulation also mandates that individuals must give explicit consent for their data to be collected and processed, providing a stronger framework for personal agency over private information compared to earlier laws.
• What responsibilities do organizations have under GDPR when it comes to protecting personal data?
  • Under GDPR, organizations are required to take several responsibilities to protect personal data. They must ensure that they have a legal basis for processing personal data and obtain explicit consent from individuals. Additionally, organizations must implement adequate security measures to safeguard personal data against breaches and unauthorized access. Furthermore, they are obligated to report any data breaches to authorities within 72 hours and inform affected individuals when necessary.
• Evaluate the impact of GDPR on international businesses operating within the EU and the implications for global data management practices.
  • The impact of GDPR on international businesses operating within the EU has been significant in shaping global data management practices. Companies outside the EU must comply with GDPR when handling EU citizens' personal data, leading them to reassess their data collection and processing methods. This regulation has pushed organizations worldwide toward greater transparency and accountability in their data practices. As businesses adapt to comply with GDPR standards, they often adopt more stringent privacy policies globally, fostering a shift towards better overall data protection practices across different jurisdictions.

Related terms

Personal Data: Any information relating to an identified or identifiable person, such as names, addresses, and identification numbers.

Data Breach: An incident in which unauthorized access to personal data occurs, potentially compromising its confidentiality, integrity, or availability.

Data Subject Rights: Rights granted to individuals under GDPR that include the right to access, rectify, erase, and restrict the processing of their personal data.