The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a comprehensive data privacy law that applies to any organisation that collects or processes personal data of EU residents, regardless of where the organisation is based. Apps that handle EU user data must comply with GDPR or face hefty fines. Here are some key reasons why app developers need to ensure their apps are GDPR compliant.
Protect User Privacy and Rights
The main objective of GDPR is to give EU residents more control over their personal data and how it is used. Key user rights under GDPR include consent, access, rectification, erasure, restriction of processing, data portability and the right to object. Apps must respect these rights by letting users know what data is collected, limiting collection and retention, and providing tools for users to access, edit or delete their data. Being GDPR compliant demonstrates a commitment to honouring user privacy. GDPR compliance software can help businesses get compliant quickly and easily with help and guidance.
Avoid Substantial Fines
Enforcement of GDPR began in May 2018. Companies that fail to comply can face fines of up to €20 million or 4% of global annual revenue, whichever is higher. Minor violations can also result in fines up to €10 million or 2% of revenue. With the ability to levy such substantial fines, regulators are serious about enforcing compliance. Apps that handle EU user data must have GDPR safeguards in place to avoid potentially business-crippling penalties.
Build User Trust
By adhering to GDPR, apps cultivate greater user trust in how personal data is handled. Transparency, consent controls and data rights give users more insight and say in data practices. GDPR compliance indicates an app takes privacy seriously and strives to empower users, building goodwill and confidence. This can strengthen engagement with EU users.
Standardise Data Protections
Prior to GDPR, data protection regulations varied considerably across EU member states, making compliance complex for multi-national apps. GDPR harmonises the data protection laws under one EU-wide policy. By meeting GDPR requirements, apps can streamline compliance across the EU. Adhering to GDPR makes data handling policies consistent and aligned with the EU’s gold standard for privacy.
Stay Competitive in the EU Market
To continue serving EU customers and remaining competitive in the EU app market, GDPR compliance is essential. With GDPR in effect, EU consumers will favour apps that demonstrate good data governance and privacy protections aligned with their expectations. Apps that fail to comply risk losing EU market share to those that prioritize GDPR conformity. To attract and maintain EU users, apps must get up to speed on GDPR.
By making apps GDPR compliant, developers can deliver better privacy, avoid stiff penalties, build user trust, standardize protections and stay competitive in the lucrative EU market. While achieving full GDPR compliance may take some effort, it is a smart investment that benefits EU customers and app providers alike in the long run. Apps handling EU user data simply cannot afford to ignore or neglect GDPR.
With over a decade in the tech field, Bogdan blends technical expertise with insights on business innovation in technology.
A regular contributor to TMS Outsource's blog, where you'll find sharp analyses on software development, tech business strategies, and global tech dynamics.
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