GDPR or the General Data Protection Regulation is a big deal. GDPR was designed to better protect consumers and their digitized information. While clearly not perfect, GDPR is the direct result of big corporations failing their customers with poor security protocols, lackluster attention to cyberfraud and overall incompetence that has put too many global citizens at risk of heightened fraud. In effect, big corp earned GDPR and the requirements foisted upon them due to their profound shortcomings and many failures.
In brief, GDPR regulates the processing by an individual, a company or an organisation of personal data relating to individuals in the EU. As a consumer, you now have certain rights regarding your data. These rights apply across the EU and also apply when you buy goods and services from non-EU companies operating in the EU. This is not just about financial services, which are very important, but all digital records. You may view your rights here.
Recently, the European Commission put together an infographic that outlines some of the data points since GDPR became the law of the Union in 2018.
Below are some of the data points from the EC with the actual graphic as well:
- In January 2019 GDPR complaints jumped to 95,180. In December, this number stood at about 60,000.
- Most common complaints: Telemarketing, Spammy emails and video surveillance (CCTV).
- When personal data for which a company is responsible is accidentally or unlawfully disclosed, that company must report the data breach within 72 hours. The number of reported breaches from May 2018 until January 2019 is over 41,000.
- Google was fined €50 million for lack of consent on ads but there are many other smaller fines for lower profile companies.