What to Do When GDPR is Breached
In today’s data-driven world, a GDPR breach can send any organization into crisis mode. Whether it’s a data leak, unauthorized access, or an internal mishap, understanding how to act swiftly and effectively is key to minimizing damage and maintaining compliance.
Here’s your go-to guide on what to do when GDPR is breached.
Understanding a GDPR Breach
A GDPR breach isn’t just about hacked databases. It encompasses any security incident that leads to the accidental or unlawful destruction, loss, alteration, unauthorized disclosure of, or access to personal data.
Examples of GDPR Breaches
External Threats: Cyberattacks, phishing scams, or malware causing data exposure.
Internal Errors: Human errors such as emailing the wrong recipient or sharing unredacted data.
Mismanagement of Data Requests: Failing to comply with data subject requests (DSARs) within the stipulated timeframe.
For DSAR-related challenges, you can explore our Data Subject Requests module, which automates workflows and keeps your team on track.
Potential Consequences of a Breach
Hefty fines and regulatory penalties.
Reputational damage and loss of client trust.
Disruption of business operations.
Step 1: Identify and Contain the Breach
The first step in managing a GDPR breach is to detect and contain it as quickly as possible.
Establish Breach Detection Mechanisms
Use security monitoring tools to flag unusual activity.
Encourage employees to report potential breaches immediately.
Containment Strategies
- Isolate compromised systems to prevent further exposure.
- Disable affected user accounts if credentials are compromised.
- Engage your incident response team to investigate and mitigate the impact.
Need help with incident tracking and response? The Incident Management module in RESPONSUM simplifies the process with impact analysis and remediation workflows.
Step 2: Assess the Breach and Its Impact
Once the breach is contained, assess the scope and severity.
Key Assessment Criteria
Type of data affected: Are sensitive categories of personal data involved?
Volume of data: How much data was compromised?
Potential harm: Could the breach result in identity theft, financial loss, or reputational damage for affected individuals?
Risk Analysis and Documentation
Conduct a thorough Data Protection Impact Assessment (DPIA) if required.
Document every step taken for regulatory transparency.
Our Risk Management module provides a centralized hub to conduct assessments, prioritize risks, and maintain audit trails.
Try RESPONSUM for free
Set up your personalized environment and see how RESPONSUM’s powerful features simplify your compliance workflows. Our experts are here to guide you every step of the way.
Step 3: Notify Relevant Authorities and Affected Parties
Under GDPR, you’re obligated to notify the appropriate supervisory authority within 72 hours of becoming aware of the breach, unless the breach is unlikely to result in a risk to individuals’ rights and freedoms.
Notifying the Supervisory Authority
Provide key details: nature of the breach, affected data, containment measures, and mitigation steps.
Keep open lines of communication with the regulator for follow-up questions or audits.
Informing Affected Individuals
If the breach poses a high risk to the data subjects, you must notify them promptly. Include:
A description of the breach and its potential impact.
Steps individuals should take to protect themselves.
Your contact information for further assistance.
Our Privacy Management module supports you in tracking notifications and ensuring compliance with documentation requirements.
Step 4: Mitigate Future Risks
A GDPR breach is a wake-up call for strengthening your privacy and security measures.
Post-Breach Evaluation
Conduct a post-incident review to analyze what went wrong and why.
Identify gaps in your existing privacy policies and procedures.
Implementing Improvements
Revise policies and procedures to close loopholes.
Invest in training: Ensure employees understand how to handle personal data securely.
Enhance vendor management: Review contracts and DPAs to ensure third-party compliance.
RESPONSUM’s Policies and Procedures and Vendor Management modules help you centralize and streamline these efforts.
Book a demo to see RESPONSUM in action
Book your free demo and discover how RESPONSUM fits your needs. Get expert insights, a live platform walkthrough, and personalized tips to boost your compliance strategy.
Final Thoughts
A GDPR breach can be a daunting experience, but with the right processes and tools in place, your organization can respond efficiently, mitigate damage, and prevent future incidents. By automating key workflows, maintaining clear documentation, and fostering a culture of privacy, you’re not only ensuring compliance—you’re building trust and resilience.
To learn more about how RESPONSUM’s all-in-one platform can support your privacy team, visit our homepage and explore the full suite of privacy solutions.
Liked reading this article? Spread the word!
Get the inside scoop on simplified privacy management
Get exclusive tips ‘n tricks straight to your inbox. Join +1,100 privacy professionals already subscribed and stay ahead of the game!
