A small business’s data collection and processing practices are held accountable by the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). The GDPR came into effect on the 25th of May 2018 as a universal framework for data protection law for the European Union. It represents the harmonisation of data protection requirements across the EU. In the digital age of data protection, the GDPR is an important framework for understanding data protection for all organisations, and the rules are the same for both large and small businesses. The GDPR framework establishes the protection of personal data, builds customer trust, and enhances business operations. Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and large corporations alike must be in compliance with the GDPR to safeguard their reputation and build trust with their customers.
There are many key steps to take to ensure GDPR compliance for SMEs. First, a business needs to be able to identify the personal data they hold. They must consider if the data they gather is the minimum needed for their purpose. Secondly, they must implement appropriate technical and organisational measures to ensure that the personal data is stored securely. It is equally important to understand the legal basis on which a given small business relies on to justify the processing of personal data to customers. Lastly, a small business should be able to facilitate requests from customers wishing to exercise their rights under the GDPR. This includes the rights of access, rectification, erasure, withdrawal of consent, data portability, and the right to object to automated processing. In effect, proper data protection practices ensure builds customer trust and enhances business operations.
A business should always review its data protection processes on a regular basis and when commencing any new project involving personal data. This ensures compliance with GDPR. It is always helpful to have a solicitor guide a business through their data protection audit or review.
The above is provided for information purposes and is not intended as legal advice. Fitzsimons Redmond LLP would be happy to discuss your businesses approach to data protection. Please contact us on 01-676 3257 or email law@fitzsimonsredmond.ie.
By Taylor McGrew, intern and Lisa Quinn O’Flaherty, partner at Fitzsimons Redmond LLP
