Who is concerned by the GDPR: Individuals & Companies
Understanding who is concerned by the GDPR is key for individuals and organizations worldwide. This article explains who falls under the regulation and why compliance matters.
GDPR: a regulation with worldwide applicability
Residents of Europe
European citizens benefit from GDPR rights regardless of nationality, ensuring transparency, control, and protection over personal data. The GDPR applies to both the organizations processing data and the individuals whose data is processed.
For EU-based organizations, any processing of personal data falls under GDPR, even if the data is handled outside the European Union—for example, on the servers of a parent company abroad. This includes activities such as employee performance evaluations or marketing campaigns using targeted advertising.
If an organization belongs to a group of companies, GDPR rules adapt accordingly: a Data Protection Officer (DPO) can be appointed for the entire group.
EQS Privacy Cockpit adapts to GDPR and other global privacy regulations, making it easy for organizations worldwide to manage data processing in Europe. Centralize compliance, secure personal data, and stay audit-ready—all from a single platform.
Companies Worldwide
The GDPR is groundbreaking for its extraterritorial scope. Companies outside the EU targeting European consumers with goods or services must comply with GDPR when processing the data of these consumers. Case law will clarify criteria for targeting EU individuals, considering factors such as language, delivery country, and currency used.
This extraterritorial reach underscores the importance the EU places on personal data protection and prevents foreign companies from circumventing GDPR. To facilitate communication with European data protection authorities, non-EU organizations must designate a representative in the EU.
Who is Concerned
In summary, the GDPR affects:
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All European citizens whose personal data is processed
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EU-based organizations ensuring ethical and secure data processing
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Non-EU organizations offering goods or services to EU residents
Conclusion
The GDPR touches everyone: European citizens, EU organizations, and even foreign companies serving EU residents. Understanding its scope, implementing robust data protection practices, and appointing responsible representatives is key to building trust, demonstrating accountability, and avoiding sanctions.
