How to Comply With GDPR? 7 Requirements to Know!

Updated December 11th, 2023
How to comply with gdpr

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The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a comprehensive data protection law enacted by the European Union (EU) in 2018. Its primary aim is to safeguard the personal data of EU residents and regulate how businesses and organizations process this data.

GDPR Compliance is essential for any organization dealing with personal data of EU residents, regardless of the organization’s location.

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In this article, we will explore:

  1. 7 Requirements to comply with GDPR
  2. 8 Steps to implement GDPR in your website
  3. 10 Steps that your should follow to comply with GDPR

Ready? Let’s dive in!

Table of contents

  1. How to comply With GDPR? 7 Requirements to Know!
  2. 8 Ways to implement GDPR compliance for your website
  3. 10 Ways to implement GDPR compliance in an organization
  4. What makes you, as an organization, GDPR compliant?
  5. Summing up
  6. How to comply with GDPR: Related reads

How to comply With GDPR? 7 Requirements to Know!

Understanding the 7 GDPR requirements is crucial for businesses operating within or interacting with European Union citizens. Non-compliance can result in hefty fines. This section will break down the seven key requirements and help you identify if you need to comply with GDPR.

The requirements include:

  1. Lawful processing of data
  2. Purpose limitation
  3. Data minimization
  4. Data accuracy
  5. Storage limitation
  6. Data integrity and confidentiality
  7. Accountability and governance

Understanding GDPR means understanding these 7 elements completely:

1. Lawful processing of data


Lawful processing is the cornerstone of GDPR compliance and mandates that data must only be processed on a legitimate, fair, and transparent basis.

Explicit consent from the data subject is often required, although other lawful bases like contractual necessity or legal obligations can also apply.

This requirement demands that organizations disclose how the data will be used before collecting it. Violations of lawful processing can lead to substantial penalties, making it crucial to always secure clear, informed consent unless another legitimate reason for processing exists.

Organizations should continuously review their lawful bases to ensure ongoing compliance.

2. Purpose limitation


The purpose limitation principle stipulates that data can only be collected for specific, explicit, and legitimate purposes. Once the data is collected, it can’t be used for anything beyond those initially stated purposes.

Organizations must be transparent with data subjects about why they are collecting their data and how it will be used. This means that any shifts in the purpose for data use will require new consent from the data subjects. Strict adherence to the original purpose is critical to maintain GDPR compliance.

3. Data minimization


Data minimization is about collecting only the data that is strictly necessary for the purpose for which it is being processed. This principle mandates that organizations should not hoard data or collect extra information “just in case” it might be useful in the future.

Excessive collection or storage of data is considered a violation of GDPR, and organizations should regularly audit their data to ensure they are not holding onto more than they need. A specific and lean approach to data collection is essential.

4. Data accuracy


Data accuracy is a key requirement under GDPR, emphasizing that the data collected and processed must be accurate and up-to-date.

Organizations are obligated to take every reasonable step to erase or correct data that is inaccurate or incomplete with respect to the purpose for which it is processed.

This requirement often means implementing mechanisms to allow data subjects to update their information easily. Ensuring data accuracy is not a one-time task but an ongoing responsibility for organizations.

5. Storage limitation


GDPR’s storage limitation principle mandates that personal data should not be stored longer than necessary for the purpose for which it was collected. Organizations should develop a clear data retention policy that specifies when and how data will be deleted.

This policy should be easily accessible to data subjects, and organizations must adhere strictly to these timelines. Failing to delete data after its “expiration date” could result in significant penalties under GDPR.

6. Data integrity and confidentiality


The principle of data integrity and confidentiality requires organizations to secure personal data against unauthorized access, unlawful processing, and accidental loss or damage.

This means implementing robust security measures such as encryption, secure access controls, and regular security audits.

The security of data should be a priority throughout its lifecycle, from the moment it is collected to its eventual deletion. Regular testing and updating of security systems are crucial for ongoing compliance.

7. Accountability and governance


Accountability and governance are key aspects of GDPR, requiring organizations to demonstrate compliance through robust data management practices.

This often involves maintaining detailed documentation of data processing activities, carrying out regular audits, and conducting Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs) for high-risk processing activities.

The appointment of a Data Protection Officer (DPO) is also recommended or required in some cases. Active governance helps ensure that an organization’s data processing activities are continually aligned with GDPR requirements.

How to know if you need to comply?


  • If your organization is based in the EU or handles data from EU citizens.
  • If you offer goods or services to EU citizens or monitor their behavior.
  • If your organization processes or holds data of EU citizens, irrespective of its location.

Understanding these seven GDPR requirements is foundational for any organization operating in the EU or dealing with EU citizens’ data. Assess your organization’s data processing activities to determine if GDPR compliance is mandatory. Ignorance is not an excuse; proactive compliance is essential.

8 Ways to implement GDPR compliance for your website

GDPR compliance for your website is not optional if you serve or interact with EU residents. It involves a series of methodical steps aimed at safeguarding user data. Here’s a roadmap to guide you through the process of making your website GDPR-compliant.

  1. Update privacy policy
  2. Consent mechanism
  3. Cookie management
  4. Data minimization in forms
  5. Secure data transmission
  6. Access and rectification measures
  7. Compliance documentation
  8. Regular audits

Let us understand them in detail:

1. Update privacy policy


Your privacy policy should be easy to read and accessible on your website. It must detail what data is collected, the purpose of collection, and how it is stored and used. Periodically review and update it to ensure it reflects your current data practices.


Consent mechanisms are crucial for obtaining explicit permission from users before collecting their data. This usually involves clear checkboxes or opt-in features that are distinct from general terms and conditions. The process should be as straightforward as possible.


Inform users about cookies through a clear and concise cookie banner or pop-up. This tool should enable users to opt-in or opt-out of cookie tracking. It’s essential that cookies are not set until the user gives explicit consent.

4. Data minimization in forms


Data collection forms, such as those for newsletters or account setups, should only request essential information. Unnecessary fields should be eliminated to comply with GDPR’s data minimization principle. The aim is to limit data collection to what is absolutely needed.

5. Secure data transmission


Implement secure data transmission protocols, such as https, to encrypt user data as it’s transferred over the internet. This helps protect against unauthorized access and data breaches. Regularly update security certificates and protocols to maintain a secure environment.

6. Access and rectification measures


Provide options for users to easily access, edit, or delete their personal data. This can be through a user dashboard or by providing a direct point of contact for these requests. Quick and effective response to such requests is essential for compliance.

7. Compliance documentation


Maintain detailed records of all GDPR-compliant activities, including consent logs and data protection measures implemented. This documentation serves as evidence of compliance and is vital during audits or legal inquiries.

8. Regular audits


Regularly audit your website to ensure ongoing GDPR compliance. This includes checking third-party plugins and services for compliance and updating your policies and practices as regulations or technologies evolve. Audits are essential for identifying potential gaps in compliance.

Making your website GDPR compliant is not just a legal necessity but also a step towards building trust with your users. It involves multiple layers of updates, ranging from your privacy policy to technical security measures. By adhering to these steps, you can ensure that your website respects user privacy and stands up to regulatory scrutiny.

10 Ways to implement GDPR compliance in an organization

Implementing GDPR compliance in an organization is a multi-step endeavor that requires strategic planning, technical adjustments, and cultural shifts. This guide will provide a structured approach to help you achieve this important milestone.

The following are the 10 ways in which you can comply with GDPR in your organization:

  1. Initial assessment and gap analysis
  2. Data mapping and inventory
  3. Legal framework and consent
  4. Technical security measures
  5. Data subject rights management
  6. Staff training and awareness
  7. Appoint a Data Protection Officer
  8. Incident response plan
  9. Regular audits and monitoring
  10. Documentation and record-keeping

Let us look at them in detail:

1. Initial assessment and gap analysis


Begin with a thorough assessment of your current data protection measures. Identify where your organization stands in terms of GDPR compliance and where the gaps lie. This will set the groundwork for your compliance roadmap.

2. Data mapping and inventory


Conduct a comprehensive data mapping exercise. Identify what kind of data you’re holding, where it’s stored, who has access to it, and how it’s being used. This provides a clear picture for implementing security measures.


Review your legal bases for data processing and collection. Whether it’s through contractual obligations or explicit consent, make sure you have a legal framework that supports GDPR compliance.

4. Technical security measures


Implement strong technical measures to protect data. This could include encryption, two-factor authentication, and secure data storage solutions. The aim is to prevent unauthorized access and data breaches.

5. Data subject rights management


Create procedures to facilitate data subjects in exercising their rights under GDPR. This includes data access, rectification, and deletion requests. User-friendly interfaces or direct points of contact should be available for this.

6. Staff training and awareness


Educate your staff about GDPR principles and how they impact daily operations. Everyone in the organization should understand their role in maintaining compliance, and periodic training sessions should be held to reinforce this.

7. Appoint a Data protection officer (DPO)


For certain organizations, especially those processing large volumes of sensitive data, appointing a DPO is mandatory. The DPO is responsible for overseeing data protection strategy and GDPR compliance.

8. Incident response plan


Develop a well-defined incident response plan for data breaches. This should detail the steps to be taken in the event of unauthorized data access and lay out the procedure for informing affected parties.

9. Regular audits and monitoring


Conduct regular audits of your data processing activities. Monitor compliance continually to identify any potential gaps and rectify them promptly. This should be an ongoing exercise.

10. Documentation and record-keeping


Document all activities related to GDPR compliance. This includes but is not limited to, consent records, data mapping results, and staff training sessions. These records are essential for proving compliance during audits.

Achieving GDPR compliance is not a one-off project but an ongoing commitment. By taking a structured approach that involves legal, technical, and educational components, your organization can meet GDPR requirements and maintain this compliance over time.

What makes you, as an organization, GDPR compliant?

Being GDPR compliant isn’t just about ticking off a checklist; it’s an ongoing process that involves continually monitoring and updating your data management practices.

Here we break down the key elements that make an organization GDPR compliant.

  1. Conducting a data audit
  2. Appointing a DPO
  3. Creating a data protection policy
  4. Obtaining explicit consent
  5. Enabling data subject rights
  6. Data security measures
  7. Regular monitoring and updates
  8. Training and awareness

Let’s understand them in detail:

1. Conducting a data audit


Begin by auditing your existing data collection and storage practices. Identify what data you’re holding, its source, and how it is being used. A comprehensive data audit is the starting point for becoming GDPR compliant.

2. Appointing a DPO


For many organizations, particularly those handling large volumes of sensitive data, a DPO is mandatory. The DPO is responsible for overseeing data protection strategy and ensuring compliance with GDPR rules.

3. Creating a data protection policy


Develop a clear, comprehensive data protection policy that outlines your organization’s approach to data management. Make sure this policy is accessible to all stakeholders and clearly communicates how you comply with GDPR.


Prior to data collection, you must obtain explicit consent from data subjects. This should be done through a clear and straightforward request, separate from other terms and conditions.

5. Enabling data subject rights


GDPR outlines several rights for data subjects, including the right to access, rectify, or delete their data. Make sure your organization has procedures to enable these rights effectively.

6. Data security measures


Implement robust security measures to protect the data you hold. This includes encryption, secure data storage, and regular security audits to prevent unauthorized access and data breaches.

7. Regular monitoring and updates


GDPR compliance is not a one-time event but an ongoing process. You need to continually monitor your data practices, carry out audits, and update your policies and procedures to ensure sustained compliance.

8. Training and awareness


Educate your team about GDPR regulations and ensure everyone understands their role in compliance. Regular training and awareness-raising are crucial for maintaining long-term compliance.

Achieving GDPR compliance requires a multi-faceted approach that begins with understanding the data you hold and extends to implementing robust data protection measures and governance strategies. By adhering to these key elements, your organization will not only comply with GDPR but also gain the trust of stakeholders, demonstrating a commitment to data privacy and security.

Summing up

Achieving full compliance with the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is crucial for any organization that deals with the data of EU citizens. While it may seem daunting initially, taking a systematic approach makes it manageable. Starting with assessments, data mapping, and gap analysis allows you to understand your current standing and create a robust action plan. Core elements involve implementing lawful data processing procedures, strong technical controls, staff training, and data protection governance through audits and monitoring.

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