Subcontract and third party issues

New requirements for Data processors under the GDPR

“Where processing is to be carried out on behalf of a controller, the controller shall use only processors providing sufficient guarantees to implement appropriate technical and organisational measures in such a manner that processing will meet the requirements of this Regulation and ensure the protection of the rights of the data subject.”

In other words, data controllers, i.e. customers of data processors, shall only choose processors that comply with the GDPR, or risk penalties themselves. As supervisory authorities enforce penalties on controllers for a lack of proper vetting, processors may find themselves obligated to obtain independent compliance certifications to reassure their would be customers.

Only process personal data on instructions from the controller, and inform the controller if it believes said instruction infringes on the GDPR (28.3). In other words, a data processor may not opportunistically use or mine personal data it is entrusted with for purposes not outlined by the data controller.

Obtain written permission from the controller before engaging a subcontractor (28.2), and assume full liability for failures of subcontractors to meet the GDPR (28.4)

Upon request, delete or return all personal data to the controller at the end of service contract (28.3.g)

Enable and contribute to compliance audits conducted by the controller or a representative of the controller (28.3.h)

Take reasonable steps to secure data, such as encryption and pseudonymization, stability and uptime, backup and disaster recovery, and regular security testing (32.1)

Notify data controllers without undue delay upon learning of data breaches (33.2)

Restrict personal data transfer to a third country only if legal safeguards are obtained (46)

A processor is further required to maintain a record of data processing activities if it qualifies for any of the following criteria (30):

Employs 250 or more persons

Processes data that is “likely to result in a risk to the rights and freedoms of data subjects”

Processes data more than occasionally

Processes special categories of data as outlined in Article 9(1)

Processes data relating to criminal convictions

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