The deadline for the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is fast approaching. Now what seemed to be a date far, far in the future is almost upon us, leaving many businesses feeling unprepared. Due to come into effect on 25th May 2018, the new regulations have a number of implications for businesses of all shapes and sizes in the EU and the companies that do business with them – that’s right, even Brexit isn’t protecting us from this one!

The impending deadline however makes the urgency to clear up what appears to be consistent confusion about GDPR even more pressing. Many big brands have spoken out about their lack of preparation, and many SMEs are also in the dark scrambling for clarity regarding what GDPR is, what it means for them and their future business operations, and what they have to do now to get organised. We’re hoping this well-timed GDPR guide will help you on the way to full preparation long before May arrives.

GDPR: An overview

So, what exactly is GDPR? The main concepts and principles of this new regulation are pretty similar to the current guidelines in the Data Protection Act. Like the Data Protection Act, the aim of GDPR is to improve transparency for consumers across all industries, particularly in regards to how data is accessed, managed and shared.

Unlike the Data Protection Act however, which will be overruled by this new legislation, they’ll be tougher penalties for breaches and non-compliance. Individuals will also have more control over how their personal data is used by the companies they interact with. With GDPR, companies will have to gain specific and lawful consent to access and use data, whilst how data is stored, used and shared will have to be clearly communicated.

GDPR and your business

For larger businesses, GDPR compliance will see the transformation of many areas, especially in respect to budgets, IT, personnel, governance and communication.

GDPR doesn’t just affect the personal data you’re about to collect from your customers, it will have an impact on the information you currently hold. These records must be brought in line with GDPR come May. Each piece of data therefore must be documented making sure that you include details of where it was sourced and who it was shared with.

Under GDPR, you may need to review your existing privacy notices and additional procedures to ensure all individuals’ rights are covered.  The right to be informed and the right of access are just two of the privileges that should be facilitated with your new, fully compliant procedures.

 How we can help

As we mentioned GDPR will affect many areas of your business. There are some implications for your IT infrastructure as a result. Whilst we can’t assist with all areas of compliance, we can help prepare your IT systems ahead of the GDPR deadline using best practice techniques that we make sure everyone in your business understands.

Get in touch with our team today on 01536 216146 and become one step closer to a fully compliant IT system.

A specialist IT Company based in Corby, Northamptonshire, Syntec Systems provide expert IT Solutions and IT Support services to businesses in the local area. Syntec Systems specialise in IT Management, IT Consultancy and IT Procurement, and their experienced technicians also offer a 24/7 helpdesk service to help resolve untimely IT Issues for all businesses with no prior contract.