3 Mins Read  |  February 12, 2025

What are 7 GDPR Requirements?

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a set of laws designed to protect the privacy and security of personal data across the European Union (EU). It has significant implications for businesses worldwide, especially for those that handle or process the personal data of EU citizens.

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Pratik Ghela

What are 7 GDPR Requirements?

As a result, achieving GDPR compliance is not only a legal necessity but also a way for businesses to build trust and ensure data protection.

To help you stay on top of GDPR compliance, we’ve put together 7 key GDPR requirements that businesses need to meet in an easy to follow table. Bookmark this as your cheatsheet on GDPR actionable tips!

Key Aspects of GDPRImpact on BusinessesActionable Tips
Data Collection and ConsentObtaining explicit consent is a foundational GDPR regulation. Ensure that your forms, email opt-ins, and data collection tools clearly communicate why you're collecting personal data and how it will be used. Consent should be easy to understand, not buried in jargon-heavy terms.
  • Use opt-in mechanisms such as checkboxes for consent.
  • Ensure consent is clear and informed.
  • Provide easy-to-understand information on data use.
Data Processing and Purpose LimitationBusinesses need to clearly communicate the purposes for which data is collected. Avoid using the data for unrelated activities without additional consent. Be transparent about your intentions.
  • Clearly state the purpose for data collection.
  • Collect only necessary data to achieve the specified purpose.
  • Avoid processing data beyond the original purpose.
Data Security and ProtectionBusinesses must have robust security measures in place to prevent data breaches and remain GDPR compliant. Regular security audits are necessary to ensure ongoing protection.
  • Use encryption for data storage and transmission.
  • Implement access control with role-based permissions.
  • Regularly conduct security audits and vulnerability assessments.
Data Subject RightsYour business must manage requests for access, modification, and deletion of personal data within the required timeframes (usually 30 days). Failure to comply can result in non-compliance and penalties.
  • Ensure systems are in place to manage data subject requests.
  • Respond to access, rectification, and erasure requests within 30 days.
  • Honor the right to data portability and objections.
Data Breach NotificationBusinesses must notify authorities and affected individuals within specific timeframes (72 hours for authorities). Having a breach response plan is essential.
  • Develop a clear and effective breach response plan.
  • Ensure rapid notification to authorities and individuals in case of a breach.
  • Protect data to minimize the chances of a breach.
Data Protection by Design and by DefaultIncorporating data protection into the design of systems and processes means taking proactive steps to safeguard personal data throughout its lifecycle.
  • Integrate privacy and security into product design.
  • Set default privacy controls to the most secure settings.
  • Limit data collection to only what’s necessary.
Third-Party Processing AgreementsBusinesses need to ensure that third-party vendors are also GDPR-compliant by having Data Processing Agreements (DPAs) in place. Regular reviews of third-party relationships are necessary to ensure compliance.
  • Conduct due diligence when selecting third-party vendors.
  • Ensure DPAs outline the responsibilities for data processing.
  • Regularly review third-party compliance with GDPR standards.

Avoid Penalties, Build Trust: With GDPR

The GDPR regulation has transformed the way businesses handle personal data, requiring them to adopt strict data protection practices. From obtaining explicit consent to ensuring robust data security and respecting the rights of data subjects, these GDPR components are central to any organization’s data governance strategy.

Staying on top of GDPR compliance is an ongoing effort, but by meeting these seven critical requirements, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the complex landscape of data protection!

FAQs on GDPR Requirements

The 7 key GDPR requirements are:

  • Data Collection and Consent
  • Data Processing and Purpose Limitation
  • Data Security and Protection
  • Data Subject Rights
  • Data Breach Notification
  • Data Protection by Design and by Default
  • Third-Party Processing Agreements

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