Data Protection & GDPR Consultancy

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) has changed how businesses in the UK are allowed to collect and manage data.

Aiding Compliance With GDPR Regulations, Bolstering Information Security

Safeguarding data is paramount as part of an organisation’s approach to cyber security. Moreover, it’s also a legal requirement.

GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) is just one regulation requiring organisations to have a strategy and processes around data management.

As a leading cyber security partner and provider of data protection and GDPR consultancy services in London and across the UK, we specialise in supporting organisations with their data privacy processes and measures.

To discuss approach data protection for your organisation please get in touch:

Ensure Data Security & GDPR Compliance

Speak to one of our consultants today to find out more about data protection:

Understanding Data Protection And GDPR

Data protection refers to safeguarding sensitive information from unauthorised access, use, disclosure, alteration, or destruction. Failing to adhere to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) carries severe consequences. Under GDPR, organisations can face fines reaching up to 4% of their annual global turnover or €20 million, whichever is higher. These financial repercussions can cripple businesses, especially large multinational corporations.

Beyond monetary penalties, GDPR non-compliance tarnishes an organisation’s reputation. Mishandling personal data erodes trust among customers and clients. Legal action is also possible, with individuals having the right to sue for damages. Investigations and audits by data protection authorities are likely, causing disruption and added costs.

Failure to comply can lead to lost business opportunities, as partners and clients may shy away due to data security concerns. Operational changes, customer loss, and global ramifications may further impact organisations. To avoid these consequences, businesses must prioritise GDPR compliance, and implement robust data protection measures and policies.

Why Professional Data Protection Consultancy Matters

Data protection is a complex area for organisations. From understanding complex regulatory requirements to ensuring robust security measures are in place and working, the process can be overwhelming for an organisation that just wants to get on with its objectives.

Engaging Akita’s professional data protection consultancy services simplifies the process:

Complexity Simplified

Achieving and maintaining data protection and GDPR compliance requires a deep understanding of legal frameworks, technical infrastructure, and organisational processes. Akita brings expertise and experience to guide organisations through the complexities with clarity and precision.

Legal Compliance

GDPR is only one of the UK laws relating to data security: The Data Protection Act, Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR), Telecommunications (Security) Act and The Freedom of Information Act all require organisations to consider how they manage data. Akita can work with organisations to adopt principles that help them stay within legal parameters.

Enhanced Data Security

Data breaches can have catastrophic consequences, ranging from financial losses to irreparable damage to reputation. By partnering with Akita, organisations can bolster their data security posture, implementing robust measures to safeguard sensitive information and mitigate the risk of breaches.

Akita’s Data Protection Consultancy Services

From conducting thorough assessments to designing bespoke strategies, we work closely with our customers to develop solutions that align seamlessly with their business goals. With our personalised approach, you can trust that your data protection and GDPR compliance needs will be addressed with precision and effectiveness.

Our consultancy can include:

Gap Analysis Reports

A thorough review of a data controller’s technical and organisational measures to ensure compliance with data protection legislation, particularly the EU GDPR. This audit assesses the current data processing practices to identify risks and measures the data controller’s compliance with the GDPR’s requirements using a weighted score system. The findings are presented in a detailed report, utilising a simple RAG (Red, Amber, Green) rating system to highlight areas of higher risk.

Data Mapping Reports

Mapping high-level data processes according to GDPR guidelines, using the ICO-recommended template. The data controller must allocate time to assist with this process. Senior Management, Data Leads, or Department Leads are required to coordinate with the data auditors within business hours to provide the necessary data for review and reporting.

Policy & Documentation Reports

Evaluating all policies relevant to GDPR compliance, including privacy, data breaches, retention, and cookies. The data controller is responsible for providing all company policies, which will be reviewed thoroughly to ensure they align with the EU GDPR requirements and support comprehensive data protection practices.

WHAT ARE THE KEY REQUIREMENTS OF GDPR?

Personal Privacy

Individuals have the right to access their personal data, Correct errors in their personal data, Erase their personal data, Object to processing of their personal data, and Export personal data

Internal Control

Organisations need to protect personal data using appropriate security, Notify authorities of personal data breaches within 72 hours of becoming aware of said breach, Obtain appropriate consents for processing data, and Keep records detailing data processing

Policies

Organisations need to provide clear notice of data collection, outline processing purposes and use cases, and define data retention and deletion policies. This should feature as both internal documentation, training items and website statements

IT & Training

Organisations need to train employees, audit and update data policies, employ or assign a Data Protection Officer (if required) and manage compliant vendor contracts

FAQs On Data Protection & GDPR Consultancy

Can you certify our organisation as GDPR compliant?

There is no specific compliance certificate for GDPR. Instead, organisations must demonstrate that they manage their data in line with the regulation. If an organisation were to experience a data breach, it is less likely to face fines if it can demonstrate it has made significant efforts to avoid this.

What’s the largest GDPR fine given?

The highest fine stands at €1.2bn levied by the Irish Data Protection Commission to tech company Meta, relating to transfer of personal data between territories without adequate protection.

How can Akita’s consultancy services help address specific challenges unique to my industry or sector?

Our consultancy services tailor their approach to address industry-specific challenges, regulatory requirements, and operational needs. By leveraging industry expertise and best practices, consultants develop customised solutions that align with the unique characteristics and objectives of each business sector.

How does GDPR impact data processing activities such as data collection, storage, sharing, and disposal?

GDPR imposes strict requirements on data processing activities throughout their lifecycle. This includes obtaining explicit consent for data collection, implementing appropriate security measures for data storage, ensuring lawful and transparent data sharing practices, and adhering to principles of data minimisation and storage limitation. Additionally, GDPR mandates secure and lawful data disposal methods to prevent unauthorised access or misuse of personal data.

How can businesses determine if they are considered data controllers or data processors under GDPR?

Data controllers determine the purposes and means of processing personal data, while data processors act on behalf of the controller. Generally, if an entity exercises control over the processing activities (e.g., decides what data to collect and how to use it), it is considered a data controller. If an entity processes data on behalf of a controller and follows their instructions, it is considered a data processor.

How does GDPR apply to emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI)?

GDPR applies to all processing of personal data, including those involving emerging technologies like AI. Organisations utilising AI must ensure compliance with GDPR principles, such as lawfulness, fairness, and transparency of data processing, purpose limitation, data minimisation, accuracy, and security. Specific considerations include ensuring transparency in AI algorithms, obtaining valid consent for data processing, and implementing safeguards to prevent discrimination or bias in AI decision-making processes.