5 mistakes in handling personal data and how to avoid them

Approximate reading time: 2m 38s

Personal data protection is a key aspect of modern digital security and business practice. Although the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) has been in force since 2018, many organizations continue to make mistakes that can lead to serious fines, loss of customers, and reputational damage.

Find out more about our training and sign up here: Personal Data Protection Course

We look at the most common mistakes in personal data processing, their consequences, and how to avoid them. Knowing these gaps is the first step toward effective management of personal information.

Mistake 1: Lack of consent for personal data processing

One of the most common mistakes is failing to meet the requirement for informed consent. GDPR requires organizations to obtain explicit, informed, and unambiguous consent from users before processing their data.

An example of a violation is the fine of 50 million euros imposed on Google by the French regulator CNIL for failing to comply with the principles of transparency and informing users about the collection of personal data for personalized advertising (source).

How do we avoid this mistake?
Include a clear and understandable explanation of what the personal data will be used for
Allow users to give or refuse consent through separate options
Provide a mechanism for withdrawing consent

Mistake 2: Inadequate storage of personal data

Many companies do not take sufficient measures to secure personal data, which makes them vulnerable to cyberattacks and information leaks.

A classic example is the data breach at British Airways, in which the data of more than 400,000 customers was compromised. The reason was weak protection of the online payment system, which led to a fine of 20 million pounds (source).

How do we avoid this mistake?
Use encryption and two-factor authentication to access sensitive data
Apply regular vulnerability testing
Store personal data only for the necessary period and delete it securely afterward

Mistake 3: Unlawful sharing of personal data

Companies often make the mistake of sharing personal data with third parties without a legal basis. This is a serious violation that can lead to sanctions.

An example is the fine of 225 million euros imposed on WhatsApp by the Irish Data Protection Commission for lack of transparency in sharing information with its parent company Facebook (source).

How do we avoid this mistake?
Ensure full transparency in data processing and sharing
Sign data processing agreements with third parties
Make sure your partners also comply with GDPR

Mistake 4: Lack of employee training and awareness

Employees' lack of knowledge is often the main reason for violations. Many companies do not provide sufficient training on personal data protection, which leads to human error.

One of the most well-known cases is the data breach at Marriott International, which affected more than 500 million users. The investigation showed that the main reason for the breach was the lack of an adequate data protection policy and insufficient staff training (source).

How do we avoid this mistake?
Conduct regular personal data protection training
Develop internal policies for the processing and storage of personal data
Include scenarios and tests that simulate real threats

Mistake 5: Failure to fulfill data subject requests

Under GDPR, every EU citizen has the right to request access to, correction of, or deletion of their personal data. Many companies do not process these requests within the established 30-day period, which leads to sanctions.

An example is the fine of 20 million euros imposed on H&M in Germany for improper storage of sensitive employee information and lack of access to it (source).

How do we avoid this mistake?
Provide a clear and easy mechanism for submitting requests
Keep a register of all requests and process them on time
Train your team on how to respond to personal data access requests

How can training help avoid these mistakes?

Understanding GDPR and the proper handling of personal data requires not only knowledge of legal requirements, but also practical skills.

Training in personal data protection will help you to:
✔️ Build data protection policies
✔️ Identify potential mistakes and risks
✔️ Ensure your organization's compliance with GDPR

Enrolling in a certified personal data course will give you the knowledge and tools you need to protect your organization from fines and reputational damage.

Find out more about our training and sign up here:  Personal Data Protection Course

Read more interesting articles:The right to be forgotten, or how to delete your personal data under GDPR