General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) | Accredify Global
Introduction to General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)?
In today’s digital landscape, data privacy and security are paramount. The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a globally recognized regulation designed to protect personal data and privacy for individuals within the European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA). Organizations that process personal data must comply with GDPR to avoid hefty penalties and build trust with customers.
The General Data Protection Regulation (EU) 2016/679 ("GDPR") is a regulation in EU law on data protection and privacy for all individuals within the European Union (EU) and the European Economic Area (EEA). It also addresses the export of personal data outside the EU and EEA areas. The GDPR aims primarily to give control to individuals over their personal data and to simplify the regulatory environment for international business by unifying the regulation within the EU.[1]
Accredify Global, a leading ISO certification body headquartered in Dallas, TX, operates in 95+ countries and offers GDPR certification services in multiple languages. We help businesses achieve compliance, mitigate risks, and strengthen data protection practices.
What is GDPR and Why is it Crucial for Your Business?
The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a comprehensive data protection law in the European Union (EU) that mandates how businesses handle the personal data of EU residents. Non-compliance can result in severe penalties, up to 4% of your annual global turnover or €20 million, whichever is higher. Beyond legal obligations, GDPR compliance fosters trust, strengthens your brand reputation, and demonstrates your commitment to data privacy.
- ✔ Legal Compliance: Avoid substantial fines and legal repercussions.
- ✔ Enhanced Customer Trust: Build stronger relationships by demonstrating your commitment to data privacy.
- ✔ Improved Data Management: Streamline your data handling processes and reduce risks.
- ✔ Competitive Advantage: Stand out in the market by showcasing your GDPR compliance.
Why is GDPR Compliance Important?
- ✅ Avoid Fines & Legal Consequences – Non-compliance can result in fines of up to €20 million or 4% of global annual turnover.
- ✅ Enhanced Customer Trust – 80% of consumers prefer businesses that prioritize data privacy.
- ✅ Competitive Edge – Companies with GDPR compliance gain a 25% higher customer retention rate.
- ✅ Global Market Access – GDPR compliance is a necessity for organizations operating in or dealing with the EU/EEA market.
- ✅ Stronger Data Security – Reduces the risk of data breaches and enhances cybersecurity.
Key Modules of GDPR Certification
1. Data Protection Principles
- ✔ Lawfulness, fairness, and transparency in data processing
- ✔ Purpose limitation and data minimization
- ✔ Accuracy, storage limitation, and integrity of data
2. Rights of Data Subjects
- ✔ Right to access, rectification, and erasure
- ✔ Data portability and the right to object
- ✔ Automated decision-making and profiling rules
3. Data Processing & Security Measures
- ✔ Encryption, pseudonymization, and data access controls
- ✔ Risk assessment and impact analysis
- ✔ Incident response and breach notification protocols
4. Accountability & Governance
- ✔ Designation of a Data Protection Officer (DPO)
- ✔ Documentation and audit compliance
- ✔ Employee training and awareness programs
5. International Data Transfers
- ✔ Standard contractual clauses (SCCs)
- ✔ Binding corporate rules (BCRs)
- ✔ Third-country compliance strategies
Services
The Accredify Global Difference: Expert Guidance and Personalized Support
- ✅ Experienced Auditors: Our team comprises highly qualified and experienced auditors with in-depth knowledge of GDPR and data protection best practices.
- ✅ Tailored Approach: We understand that every organization is unique, and we provide customized solutions to meet your specific needs.
- ✅ Global Recognition: Our certifications are recognized worldwide, enhancing your credibility and market access.
- ✅ Dedicated Support: We provide ongoing support throughout the certification process and beyond, ensuring your continuous compliance.
- ✅ Transparent and Efficient Process: We prioritize clear communication and streamlined processes to minimize disruptions to your business.
- ✅ Focus on Education: We not only certify, we educate. We make sure your team understands the requirements and can maintain compliance.
- ✅ ISO Integration: As an ISO certification body, we understand the importance of integrated management systems. We can help you align your GDPR compliance with other relevant ISO standards, such as ISO 27001 (Information Security Management).
The Accredify Global : GDPR Certification
STEP 1 - PREPARATION
Prior to the Compliance Check, we recommend our online "GDPR knowledge and Awareness Course" is completed. This course is included free of charge for a single learner with the purchase of each Compliance Check.
STEP 2 - COMPLIANCE CHECK
You'll be taken through the key elements and changes, as well as the Action Plan we have designed to help interpret the GDPR legislation into straightforward actions.
Our philosophy is to always add value, so we'll share best practice on how to raise awareness internally and will also take you through the Privacy Impact Assessment - a major part of GDPR compliance.
STEP 3 - ACTION REPORT
After the visit, you will be provided with a formal report on the actions you need to take. Your job will then be to plan how you will deal with gaps between what you do already, and what GDPR expects.
You may also decide to implement changes to processes and responsibilities into your management system.
STEP 4 - RAISE AWARENESS
To be fully compliant and protect your organisation from Legal action, all stakeholders should be aware of GDPR and their responsibilities.
This can be efficiently and effectively delivered through our Training programmes
Following completion, each learner will confirm their understanding of the course content and a certificate will be issued (we recommend a copy is held on file by your organisation).
PDCA Cycle | Accredify Global
- Plan – to think that what do we need to achieve in our organization
- Do – to execute a planned action which will help us achieve the required objective
- Check – monitor against the standards) (policies, objectives, requirements)
- Action – finally implementing what has been rechecked.
ISO CERTIFICATION. 3 STEPS. 30 DAYS. DONE !! | ACCREDIFY GLOBAL
Accredify Global, we follow a structured and transparent ISO certification process to help businesses achieve international compliance efficiently. Our streamlined approach ensures a hassle-free experience from initial consultation to final certification..
3. Audit Review & Certification
- Objective: Validate your management system through an external audit and achieve certification.
- Actions:
- Conduct an internal audit to ensure readiness for the certification audit, utilizing Accredify Global's auditing tools and resources.
- Schedule and undergo an external audit with Accredify Global's accredited certification body.
- Address any non-conformities identified during the audit with support from Accredify Global's consultants.
- Outcome: Successful certification and ongoing compliance with the ISO standard, with continuous support and guidance from Accredify Global.