What is the GDPR?
The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a new EU data protection law on May 25, 2018. The GDPR replaces the 1995 EU Data Protection Directive. The GDPR requires companies that process the personal data of EU citizens to obtain explicit consent from individuals before collecting, using, or sharing their data. It also imposes strict fines for violators.

What are the fundamental changes?

• This regulation replaces the 1995 Data Protection Directive and sets out new rules for how personal data must be collected, processed, and stored by organizations operating in the EU.
• Under GDPR, organizations must obtain explicit consent from individuals before collecting their data. They must also provide individuals with clear and concise information about their rights under GDPR and ensure that individuals can exercise those rights easily and without hassle.
• Organizations that fail to comply with GDPR may face fines of up to 4% of their global annual revenue or €20 million (whichever is greater).
• The GDPR will have a significant impact on businesses operating in the EU, and they must take steps to ensure compliance as soon as possible.

How will this affect how we use the internet?
The regulation results from the EU’s efforts to protect its citizens’ data and privacy rights. The law applies to any company that processes or intends to process the personal data of individuals in the European Union. Under GDPR, companies must take certain steps to protect their users’ privacy. These steps include ensuring that user consent is properly obtained and that data is only processed for legitimate purposes. Companies also must report any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities.

What implications will this have for businesses?

• Businesses must take steps to protect the privacy of their customers and employees.
• They need to implement appropriate data protection measures, such as creating secure systems and training employees on how to comply with GDPR.
• They may need to change their marketing practices, as some permissible activities under GDPR may now be considered inappropriate or unlawful.
• The stakes are high for violating GDPR, as fines can reach 4% of a company’s global annual revenue or €20 million (whichever is greater), whichever is greater.
• Many companies will need to appoint a Data Protection Officer (DPO) to comply with GDPR requirements, regardless of size or industry sector.

What should businesses do to prepare for the GDPR?

• Businesses should review their data protection policies and procedures to ensure they are compliant with the GDPR.
• They should create a Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA) to identify and assess the risks associated with data processing activities.
• They should appoint a Data Protection Officer (DPO) responsible for implementing and overseeing compliance with the GDPR.
• They should establish communication channels with customers and employees to ensure they know their rights under the GDPR.
• They should have a process for reporting any data breaches under the GDPR.
• Finally, businesses should monitor their compliance activity regularly to ensure they remain compliant with the GDPR requirements.

In conclusion, the GDPR will change how we use the internet by giving individuals more control over their data. This will make the internet a safer and more secure place for everyone.