What does GDPR mean for small businesses?

GDPR is a European Union regulation that aims to tighten and standardize data protection for persons across the EU. In a nutshell, it allows users to have more control over their personal information.

So, what does GDPR mean for your small business? If you process personal data of EU citizens, you must comply with EU legislation. While the restrictions are primarily aimed at big companies or, more crucially, anyone who would share or use that data in an unethical manner, the standards are supposed to be uniform across all industries — regardless of the size of your company.

Is the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) a minefield? Maybe. However, the mood is quite positive, and by taking this seriously and demonstrating that you care about your clients’ personal information, you are presenting your company in a positive light. If you’re wondering what GDPR means for small businesses like mine, here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need to do.

• Make sure all employees are aware of their obligations regarding data protection

• Know your data and how you’re using it as a firm. Examine the information you have on your customers, employees, and suppliers. Then consider who that information might be shared with and whether it truly needs to be.
• Encrypt any sensitive information you don’t want to be exposed. You must ensure that your security is up to date in order to comply with GDPR. Your privacy policy should be well-publicized and GDPR-compliant.

• Have a plan in place for deleting personal information electronically if necessary. Prepare for data access requests and know how to handle them. • Be specific about how you find, record, and manage content. Know what to do in the event of a data breach and how to report/investigate it. Article 29 of the ICO’s code of conduct and advice should be familiarized. Determine whether a Data Protection Officer is required (DPO)

So, how does GDPR affect small businesses? In summary, if you have personal information on your clients, be sure you have it legally, that it is protected and not exploited, and that it can be safely destroyed at any time. Most small business owners are unlikely to be affected by the fines and scare tactics that have been widely reported. And, if your data protection policies have been in place for decades, you may just need to make a few minor tweaks.