Since the new GDPR regulations went into effect, there has been a lot of confusion about what businesses can and cannot do regarding email marketing campaigns. For example, can you still send unsolicited business emails to companies?
In this blog, we will discuss the facts of GDPR compliance and provide tips for ensuring that your email marketing campaigns comply with the law. Stay tuned.
What is GDPR, why do you need to comply
General Data Protection Regulation is a set of regulations that member states of the European Union must carry out to protect the privacy of digital data. The regulation is also known as EU Regulation 2016/679. GDPR was adopted on April 14, 2018 and enacted on May 25, 2018.
GDPR replaces the 1995 Data Protection Directive, based on principles that are no longer adequate in the digital age. The new regulation sets out strict rules about collecting, using, and protecting personal data. It gives individuals the right to know what personal data is collected about them, to have that data erased, and to object to its use.
Organizations that collect or process personal data must comply with GDPR. Unless they can demonstrate that they meet certain conditions. For example, they may need to show that they have a legitimate reason for processing the data. Such as, for the performance of a contract or compliance with a legal obligation. According to this annual report, organizations that fail to comply with GDPR can be fined up to 4% of their annual global revenue or €20 million (about US$24 million), whichever is greater.
The regulation applies to any data that can identify an individual, including names, addresses, email addresses, IP addresses, and biometric data. GDPR also applies to so-called pseudonymous data, which is data that has been anonymized but could potentially be re-identified.
The basics of GDPR compliance
General Data Protection Regulation is a set of regulations that states the European Union must implement to protect the privacy of digital data. The regulation is also known as EU Reg. No. 765/2016. This came into force on May 25th 2018. The regulation replaces the Data Protection Directive, passed in 1995 and did not consider technological advances. The regulation sets out strict requirements for collecting, using, and protecting personal data. Companies that violate GDPR can be fined up to 4% of their annual global revenue or €20 million (whichever is greater).
The regulation applies to any company that processes or intends to process the data of individuals in the EU, regardless if the business is based inside or outside the EU. The regulation does not apply to companies that process only anonymous data or data that has been “affected.” (i.e., data that can no longer be linked to a specific individual). To comply with GDPR, companies must appoint a Data Protection Officer (DPO) and implement security measures to protect personal data from prohibited access, disclosure, or destruction. They must also give individuals the right to access their data, the right to have their data erased, and the right to object to its use.
The regulation applies to any GDPR business data that can identify an individual, including names, addresses, email addresses, IP addresses, and biometric data. GDPR also applies to so-called pseudonymous data, which is data that has been anonymized but could potentially be re-identified.
Even if a company does not process personal data directly but merely stores or transmits it on behalf of another company, GDPR still applies. For example, a cloud storage provider that stores personal data for its customers must comply with GDPR.
GDPR requires companies to get explicit consent from individuals before collecting, using or sharing their data. Businesses must also provide individuals with clear and concise information about their rights under GDPR. Finally, companies must ensure that personal data is accurate and up to date.
Final words
As the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) goes into effect, organizations worldwide scramble to ensure compliance. GDPR sets strict new rules for handling personal data, violators can be fined up to 4% of their annual revenue or €20 million (whichever is greater). While GDPR applies only to organizations with EU customers, its reach is global, as an organization that processes the personal data of EU citizens must comply.
To comply with GDPR, organizations must take steps to protect the personal data they collect and process. This includes ensuring that information is collected lawfully. For a legitimate purpose, not used or disclosed in ways that exceed the purpose for which it was collected. Organizations must also take steps to keep data accurate, secure. And also, provide individuals with a way to exercise their rights under GDPR. Finally, organizations must appoint a Data Protection Officer (DPO) to oversee compliance with the GDPR.
With GDPR now in effect, organizations must act quickly to ensure compliance. Those that fail to do so risk severe financial penalties and damage to their reputation.
See more information regarding marketing campaigns with Business Data Prospects UK business data here.
