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Understand the key differences between the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation and Germany’s Federal Data Protection Act – both critical for compliance.
Get practical guidance on avoiding the most common violations, from incorrect consent handling to failure to report breaches within 72 hours.
Learn how the EU AI Act intersects with GDPR, and what you must do to keep your AI systems compliant with upcoming European standards.
Companies doing business in Germany face strict – and layered – data protection obligations. This whitepaper breaks down what GDPR and BDSG require, outlines real-world case studies, and explains how to meet legal demands across consent, reporting, service provider oversight, and AI usage. Whether you’re expanding into the market or optimizing your current strategy, this resource gives you the insight to act confidently.
GDPR enforcement moves fast and hits hard. To protect both reputation and revenue, organizations need to detect issues quickly, respond within hours, and stand up to regulatory scrutiny.
How to build a legally compliant data protection program
Compliance with GDPR and BDSG isn’t just a checkbox – it requires clear structure and action. Here are the essentials to focus on:
Map your data flows and legal obligations
Before implementing controls, understand what personal data your organization collects, where it’s stored, who accesses it, and for what purpose. This includes data from customers, employees, vendors, and website users. Mapping your data flows is the foundation for identifying compliance risks under GDPR and BDSG, and it helps determine whether you need a DPIA, consent mechanisms, or third-party agreements. Without visibility, there can be no control.
Document consent and uphold data subject rights
Consent under GDPR must be informed, voluntary, and clearly recorded – pre-checked boxes don’t count. Organizations should implement tools to manage opt-ins and link each consent to a time-stamped log. In addition, data subjects have the right to access, correct, delete, and transfer their data. You’ll need streamlined workflows and dedicated teams to respond to these requests – usually within 30 days.
Appoint a qualified data protection officer
German law requires the appointment of a data protection officer when at least 20 employees regularly handle personal data or if special categories of data are processed. This can be an internal or external person but must act independently, report directly to management, and possess expert knowledge of data protection law.
Monitor third-party processors and vendors
Any service provider handling personal data on your behalf – like cloud platforms, call centers, or marketing agencies – must meet strict contractual and operational standards. GDPR Article 28 mandates formal data processing agreements and regular audits. Organizations should document vendor reviews, risk assessments, and remediation plans to maintain accountability and transparency.
Webinars On-Demand
Explore how data protection is evolving beyond whistleblowing systems into broader governance, risk, and compliance strategies. Register for our expert-led webinar.
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Courses
While managers may not typically have access to specific employee medical information, situations can arise where an employee shares this information, like when requesting leave or an accommodation. …
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1 Apr 2025 Matt Kelly
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Courses
Organizations use technology to create, edit, store and share information – including personal information. One hack or careless act can put it all at risk. Employees need cybersecurity training to …
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Courses
Data is crucial for businesses, but also a target for criminals. With growing data privacy concerns, organizations must prioritize data security. This training equips organizations to safeguard …
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White Papers
The UK GDPR and EU GDPR, while broadly similar, have key differences that organizations need to navigate. This white paper offers a comparison of the two regulations, guiding organizations on the …
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9 Jan 2025 NAVEX Editorial Team
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Playbooks
The playbook is your guide to navigating the EU Digital Operational Resiliency Act (DORA). It offers insights into the key requirements, potential challenges, and best practices.
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1 Oct 2024 NAVEX Editorial Team
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eBooks
Whether it's managing cybersecurity threats, implementing effective whistleblowing channels, or leveraging technology for compliance training, this guide will help you navigate the evolving compliance …
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Infographics
In a landscape of rapidly evolving regulations and ever-increasing threats, SMBs need to remain proactive in adopting new risk and compliance technology.
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Don’t wait until a data protection audit or fine forces your hand. This whitepaper gives you the tools to proactively manage GDPR and BDSG obligations – with real-world examples and clear guidance.