Key steps to GDPR compliance for websites:
The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a European Union regulation that protects the privacy of individuals’ personal data. It applies to all websites that collect or process personal data of individuals located in the European Union, regardless of the website’s location.
1. Have a clear and concise cookie consent banner
The cookie consent banner should be prominently displayed on all pages of your website and should clearly explain what cookies are, why you use them, and how users can manage their cookie preferences.
2. Create a comprehensive cookie policy
Your cookie policy should provide detailed information about the types of cookies you use, the purposes for which you use them, and how long you store them. It should also explain how users can manage their cookie preferences.
3. Have a privacy policy
Your privacy policy should provide detailed information about how you collect, use, and store personal data. It should also explain how users can exercise their rights under GDPR, such as the right to access, rectify, erase, and object to the processing of their data.
4. Obtain consent for cookies that require it
For cookies that require user consent (such as tracking cookies), you must obtain explicit and informed consent from the user before setting the cookie. Avoid using pre-checked boxes or implied consent.
5. Respect users' rights
Users have a number of rights under GDPR, including the right to access their data, rectify inaccuracies, erase their data, and object to processing. You must respect these rights and make it easy for users to exercise them.
6. Appoint a data protection officer (DPO)
If your website is large or complex, you may need to appoint a data protection officer (DPO). A DPO is a person who is responsible for overseeing your organization’s compliance with GDPR.
7. Secure your data
You must take steps to secure the personal data that you collect and process. This includes using appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect the data from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, alteration, or destruction.
8. Transfer data in compliance with GDPR
If you transfer personal data outside of the European Economic Area (EEA), you must do so in compliance with GDPR’s requirements for international data transfers. This may involve using appropriate safeguards, such as Standard Contractual Clauses.
9. Report data breaches
If you experience a data breach that is likely to result in a high risk to the rights and freedoms of individuals, you must report the breach to the relevant data protection authority within 72 hours.
10. Stay up-to-date
GDPR is a complex regulation and it is important to stay up-to-date on the latest changes. You should regularly review your website’s policies and practices to ensure that they remain compliant with GDPR.
Additional resources
If you are unsure about how to comply with GDPR, you should consult with a lawyer who specializes in data protection law.
- Privacy controls in Google Analytics
- What is the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)? – Google Ads Help
- Helping advertisers comply with the GDPR & AADC – Google Ads Help
