As the world becomes more and more digital, the value of data is skyrocketing. Because of this, companies that manage this data are being called to adhere to additional responsibilities.
This is where GDPR and the right to be forgotten come into play. Being aware of these policies and handling them properly can be key to running a business.
What Is GDPR?
When it first began, the rights now covered under GPR were also called the right to erasure. Over time, these rights became the General Data Protection Regulation or GDPR.
In essence, if certain conditions apply, a person can require a data controller to get rid of personal data that the controller has access to. If an individual requires erasure, the data controller must erase the data without delay and for free of charge.
In addition, if the data controller has shared the personal data with third parties, they must also take steps to make sure those other parties also erase the data.
It is important to note that these rights are not unrestricted. There have to be certain circumstances met.
In addition, there are certain cases where the right to be forgotten does not apply, such as if the data processing relates to legal proceedings or is being carried out in the public interest.
Who Needs to Maintain GDPR Compliance?
As someone who has access to users’ data, you may need to comply with these regulations. This is because GDPR compliance is not based on your business location. It depends on whose data you are collecting.
If you know or even suspect your business works with data from EU residents, you should take active steps to protect your users’ rights.
If your organization does not comply with this privacy law, there could be serious financial consequences. Fines could total 4% of your global revenue or €20 million depending on the violation.
How to Meet GDPR Regulations
The first step you should take to come into compliance is to audit your current data collection. You need to check if you process data for people in the EU and if it is subject to GDPR compliance.
You should also take steps to improve the protection of your data storage. Doing so improves security and can mitigate many risks. Since you may be accountable for third-party clients, make sure to establish a data processing agreement with these other parties.
It’s critical that you inform your customers about your data processing activities.
Make a plan if someone requests data erasure. Certus products can make it easy to secure and erase data when needed. You should also create a plan if there is a data breach.
Protect Your Users’ Right to Be Forgotten
Not everyone wants their personal data to be widely available and available for any purpose. The GDPR’s right to be forgotten helps protect this right. As a business, you should assess what you can do to become compliant with GDPR.
