Data Protection & GDPR Consultancy
The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) has changed how businesses in the UK are allowed to collect and manage data.
Aiding Organisations In Compliance With GDPR Regulations
The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a regulation designed to strengthen and unify data protection for all individuals within the European Union, as well as dealing with the export of personal data in the rest of the world.
GDPR intends to give more control to individuals over their personal data, as well as simplifying the regulations around international trade by unifying regulations throughout the EU.
Organisations should now ensure they are compliant with the requirements (view the ICO’s 12 Step guidance to GDPR).
WHAT ARE THE KEY REQUIREMENTS OF GDPR?
Personal Privacy
Individuals have the right to access their personal data, Correct errors in their personal data, Erase their personal data, Object to processing of their personal data, and Export personal data
Internal Control
Organisations need to protect personal data using appropriate security, Notify authorities of personal data breaches within 72 hours of becoming aware of said breach, Obtain appropriate consents for processing data, and Keep records detailing data processing
Policies
Organisations need to provide clear notice of data collection, outline processing purposes and use cases, and define data retention and deletion policies. This should feature as both internal documentation, training items and website statements
IT & Training
Organisations need to train employees, audit and update data policies, employ or assign a Data Protection Officer (if required) and manage compliant vendor contracts
WHAT HAPPENS IF I DON’T COMPLY?
Failing to adhere to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) carries severe consequences, surpassing the penalties of the previous Data Protection Act. Under GDPR, organisations can face fines reaching up to 4% of their annual global turnover or €20 million, whichever is higher. These financial repercussions can cripple businesses, especially large multinational corporations.
Beyond monetary penalties, GDPR non-compliance tarnishes an organisation’s reputation. Mishandling personal data erodes trust among customers and clients. Legal action is also possible, with individuals having the right to sue for damages. Investigations and audits by data protection authorities are likely, causing disruption and added costs.
Failure to comply can lead to lost business opportunities, as partners and clients may shy away due to data security concerns. Operational changes, customer loss, and global ramifications may further impact organisations. To avoid these consequences, businesses must prioritise GDPR compliance, and implement robust data protection measures and policies.
Akita’s GDPR AUDITS & Consultancy SERVICES
Akita can advise on how you can improve your data security:
- GDPR audit of data access permissions
- GDPR email marketing campaign
- Ongoing compliance reviews of your IT systems (as part of IT support)
- Reviewing your disaster recovery plan
- Improved security, including next-generation firewalls, active threat detection, two-factor authentication and more
- User training on how to effectively recognise any dubious emails
Benefits Of GDPR Consultancy Servies
Enhanced Data Protection: The GDPR imposes strict protocols for safeguarding data, and adhering to these regulations enables organisations to enhance their cybersecurity measures, thereby minimising the likelihood of data breaches.
Strengthened Reputation & Customer Confidence: Companies that comply with the GDPR are often perceived as more reliable by customers, as their commitment to data protection is evident. This increased trust can deliver a significant competitive edge.
Streamlined Data Management: GDPR compliance typically requires organisations to streamline their data handling processes. This can result in more efficient data management, with improved organisation, storage, and retrieval systems.
Alignment with International Standards: The GDPR is widely regarded as a benchmark for global data protection. Compliance ensures alignment with international standards, facilitating business expansion and international operations.
Legal Protection: GDPR compliance establishes a clear legal framework for data handling, reducing the risk of legal complications and ensuring smoother business operations.
Contact Us
For more details about our GDPR audit or related consultancy, please get in touch: