What does GDPR prohibit businesses from doing?

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a major European regulation that aims to protect the personal data of individuals. In force since May 2018, the GDPR establishes a strict legal framework for the processing of personal data by companies and organizations. Here's a look at the main GDPR bans on businesses:

1. Data collection without consent:

The GDPR prohibits, in certain cases, companies from collecting personal data without the explicit and informed consent of the individual concerned. Consent must be given in a free, specific, informed and unambiguous manner. Companies must inform individuals about the purpose of collecting their data and how it will be used.

2. Misuse of data:

The GDPR prohibits companies from using individuals' personal data for purposes other than those for which it was collected, unless this is expressly permitted by law or the individual's consent has been obtained for these new purposes.

3. Excessive data retention:

The GDPR prohibits companies from retaining individuals' personal data for longer than necessary for the purposes for which it was collected. Companies should set appropriate retention periods and delete data when it is no longer needed.

4. Unauthorized transmission of data:

The GDPR prohibits companies from transferring personal data outside the European Union without appropriate safeguards to ensure the protection of that data. Companies must put in place mechanisms such as standard contractual clauses or binding corporate rules to ensure that data is protected when transferred to third countries.

5. Failure to secure data:

The GDPR imposes an obligation on businesses to put in place appropriate security measures to protect personal data against loss, destruction, unauthorized disclosure or unauthorized access. Companies should regularly assess the risks associated with data processing and implement security measures proportionate to these risks.

6. Non-respect of individual rights:

The GDPR grants individuals certain rights over their personal data, such as the right of access, the right of rectification, the right to erasure and the right to data portability. Businesses are required to respect these rights and respond to individuals' requests within the time limits prescribed by law.

In conclusion, the GDPR requires companies to respect strict standards when it comes to the processing of personal data. By ensuring that individuals' consent is obtained, data is used appropriately, data is effectively protected, and individuals' rights are respected, businesses can comply with GDPR requirements and build customer trust.