In
recent weeks, we have all noticed our email inboxes being bombarded from
businesses, asking for updated contact preferences or to agree to updated
privacy policies. Why? It’s all in aid of GDPR, a word that strikes fear into most
business directors. But, what is GDPR? And what do the changes mean? We have
put together the top facts that we think you need to know.

What is GDPR?

GDPR stands for General Data Protection Regulation.
It is a European regulation that covers data protection and is aimed at
improving and unifying the way personal data is currently protected. This new
regulation will take effect on 25th May 2018 and will be replacing
the current European Data Protection Directive.

What is considered as ‘personal data’?

The perception of ‘personal data’ is very broad.
The European Commission defines it as any type of information that relates to a
person that allows them to be easily identified. This includes information such
as: name, address, email address, financial details, medical details and even
IP address.

What can businesses do to prepare?

To prepare for GDPR, we have outlined some of
the key factors that you need to consider.

·        
Awareness – First
things first, make sure all your employees are aware that the law is changing
and how it could affect the way you run your business.

·        
Evaluate the information you hold
- Document what personal data you hold, how you acquired it and whether it is shared
with anyone.

·        
Privacy policy
- Review your current privacy notices and make any changes in time for GDPR
launch date.

·        
Data Protection Officer
- Designate someone to take responsibility for data protection or consider whether
you need to implement a Data Protection Officer.

Penalties

There will be a tiered approach to the fining
of businesses failing to comply. For example, a company can be fined 2% of
their annual turnover for not having their records in order. Bigger offences
come with greater consequences, with fines of up to €20 million or 4% of the company’s global annual -
whichever is greater.

It can be a daunting task to implement a plan of action, but preparation is key. You can find out more about
GDPR on the official web page. -

If you would like to change your communication
preferences with Telecoms World, please update your details on our dedicated
page:

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‍Contact our team on 0800 774 7772 for more details, help and advice.

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