GDPR: Introduction and Foundations for a Secure Digital World

In an increasingly digitalized world, protecting personal data has become all the more vital for both companies and individuals. This is where the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) comes in — a regulatory framework that redefines the way companies deal with their customers' data in Europe.

Fundamental Principles of GDPR

In effect since 2018, the law is intended to protect the personal data of European citizens. But it's more than just a law – it represents a commitment to transparency, security and control over the information that defines us in the digital age.

At the heart of the GDPR are three key figures:

• Data subject: the individual to whom the personal data relates.

• Data controller: the company or organization that defines how data will be collected and used.

• Data processor: the company or organization that processes the data on behalf of the controller.

The GDPR defines a range of rules and principles which companies that collect, store or process personal data need to follow. The main ones include:

• Lawfulness, loyalty and transparency: data should be collected and used lawfully, in an honest and straightforward manner, and ensure that the data subjects are aware of and informed about how their data is being used.

• Data minimization: only the necessary and relevant data for the purpose of processing should be collected.

• Accuracy: the data must be accurate and updated, and the company is responsible for verifying if the information is correct.

• Limitations to processing: the data must be processed only for the specific, explicit and legitimate purposes for which it was collected.

• Integrity and confidentiality: companies are required to implement appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect data from unauthorized access, alteration, loss or destruction.

The impact of the GDPR on businesses and consumers

The GDPR has had a significant impact on companies, requiring them to adjust their processes to comply with the new regulatory reality. This includes the implementation of robust security measures, the appointment of a data protection officer, detailed documentation of data processing and the guarantee of the rights of data subjects, such as access, rectification, erasure, portability and limits on processing.

For consumers, the GDPR represents a significant increase in control over their personal data. They have the right to know how their data is being used, request for incorrect information to be corrected, delete their data in certain cases and object to processing.

Compliance, security and data privacy

GDPR compliance is not only a legal obligation, but also a strategic necessity. A company that demonstrates commitment to data protection builds trust with its customers, strengthens its reputation, and stands out against the competition.

GDPR compliance also contributes to the security of the company's information, protecting it from cyberattacks and data breaches. Personal data is an attractive target for cybercriminals, and the GDPR requires companies to implement strong and effective measures to protect it.

Data protection awareness is the best weapon against security and privacy threats in the digital world. If you handle customer data, you really need to become familiar with this law.