Navigating data protection compliance, particularly with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), can sometimes feel like solving a complex puzzle — but you don’t have to do it alone, and you don’t need to rely on resources within your country to help you out. Chances are the best value-for-money service providers aren’t in your jurisdiction or maybe even your part of the world. For European Union (EU) businesses mulling over the prospect of outsourcing their data protection compliance services outside the EU, understanding certain GDPR conditions is critical. This includes mastering key concepts such as ‘adequacy decisions’, ‘appropriate safeguards’, conducting risk assessments, and choosing the right outsourcing provider.

Demystifying GDPR’s stance on outsourcing data protection compliance

The GDPR permits EU businesses to outsource data protection compliance to non-EU countries, but with conditions in place to ensure the safety of data transfers. In simple terms, the GDPR requires that the receiving country provides a comparable level of data protection to that of the EU. This is verified through ‘adequacy decisions’, a certification from the European Commission that validates a country’s data protection measures.

If a country lacks an adequacy decision, the GDPR insists on the implementation of ‘appropriate safeguards’. These can include measures like a data processing agreement (DPA) with standard contractual clauses (SCCs), guaranteeing that data processing remains lawful.

The role of risk assessments in data transfers

Risk assessments are essential to GDPR compliance, particularly when transferring data to countries without an adequate decision. A risk assessment measures potential threats and helps in devising necessary precautionary measures. This ensures GDPR protections remain intact.

Overcoming outsourcing challenges with Michalsons

Outsourcing data protection compliance isn’t merely a legal consideration. It also encompasses financial aspects, trust-building, cultural compatibility, communication efficiency, and security management. We also need to consider business continuity, regulatory compliance, and reputation management.

At Michalsons, we provide well-rounded solutions for these challenges. Our team offers affordable services, fosters trust through transparency, bridges cultural gaps through effective communication, and implements robust security measures. We also prioritise maintaining business continuity and aligning with all relevant regulations.

Benefits of outsourcing data protection compliance to Michalsons

Outsourcing data protection compliance can unlock benefits such as cost efficiency, specialised expertise, improved compliance, increased flexibility, and a creative edge. With Michalsons, your business can harness these benefits while eliminating the stress of managing these services in-house.

Balancing risks in outsourcing with Michalsons

Outsourcing isn’t without risks, such as potential loss of control, transparency concerns, and added complexity. When choosing an outsourcing provider, consider their experience, security measures, transparency, and ability to meet your unique needs. At Michalsons, we mitigate these issues flexibly, offering you control and transparency and reducing operational complexity.

Actions you can take next

Outsourcing data protection compliance outside the EU is a feasible option. With a solid understanding of GDPR’s requirements, comprehensive risk assessments, and the right outsourcing partner, it can offer significant advantages for businesses. Here’s how we can assist you: