Since the introduction of GDPR in 2018, it’s brought some pretty tough challenges within Europe for businesses. The significant fines businesses can face for not adhering to the new guidelines have proven a suitable motivator for companies to adopt new measures into their policies to protect themselves. However, this isn’t always easy.
Below, we’ll look at five critical GDPR challenges Europe faces for businesses.
#1 Updating existing policies
One of the biggest challenges GDPR has presented, is that companies have had to update their privacy policies. This isn’t a simple process. In fact, it can be quite complex, and many businesses have had to bring in experts to help. Companies such as RSM offer businesses advice and support to ensure they are complying with current regulations.
#2 The costs of implementing new processes
It’s not just privacy policies which need to be updated. Many businesses in Europe have had to pay to completely overhaul their information systems. This has proven to be extremely costly. However, the costs of not complying with the GDPR regulations are far higher, making these costs a worthwhile investment!
#3 How historical data is handled
Once the new regulations were introduced, it didn’t just impact how new information is collected and stored, it also applies to historical data too. All historical data needs to be assessed and updated to comply with new regulations if required. It’s also important to note that businesses cannot simply contact all users to ask them to opt in or out of email campaigns. Instead, they can only reach out to active users.
#4 Seeking consent
Similarly, seeking consent has been another major headache for Europe’s businesses. Consent pop ups have needed to be added to websites. This pop up should provide the user with numerous options as to how their information can be used. The information provided needs to be 100% clear and the individual is also allowed to withdraw their consent whenever they like.
#5 Data breach clarity
One of the main regulations introduced with GDPR is how businesses need to handle data breaches. They have to be reported within 72 hours of the breach occurring. This means, companies need to have strict security measures in place, something which can be costly as well as time consuming. The penalties for security breaches has been increased significantly, so businesses can’t afford not to take their security seriously anymore.
The introduction of GDPR has certainly caused major headaches for businesses. The above is just 5 challenges it has presented. However, there is plenty of help available to businesses to ensure they are GDPR compliant. Therefore, there’ no reason why companies can’t get ahead of the regulations and avoid the complex issues it presents.