Why The EU Continues To Crack Down On Data Collection and Storage Practices

In today’s digital age, it is more important than ever to be aware of what rights you have regarding data collection. Whether you are an employer, team member, or customer, it is essential to protect workforce data using proper storage techniques.

Lately, the EU has recognized the growing issues with identity theft and other digital crimes. As a result, they have taken extra steps to crack down on data collection laws and storage practices.

This includes outlining a series of principles surrounding the General Data Protection Rules. This recent GDPR law requires that businesses and other qualifying entities follow specific principles for collecting and storing data.

Four Things to Know About GDPR Data Collection

#1: What Data can be Collected?

When a company needs to collect data from customers or employees, it must be clear about the intended use. The GDPR demands that the purpose of the data collection be stated transparently to the person from whom the data is coming. The bottom line is that a company can only collect as much data as required by its stated purpose.

#2: What is the Data Used For?

Data collection is done for many reasons. Foremost, it gives companies a way to organize and store a list of customers. This kind of database allows for a quick reference and speedy customer service.

The collected data can be used for whatever purpose the company declares they are collecting it for. For instance, let’s say you are a customer at a car rental agency, and they need to collect your name, address, phone number, birth date, and social security number.

The rental company must be clear about what they will use that data for. So if it is going to be used to clear you for car rental, they must disclose that.

#3: How Long can Data Be Kept?

In short, data should only be stored for as long as it is needed for the purpose a company has declared. The company should have policy guidelines that clearly state the length of time they will be storing the data.

This timeline should show when the data will be reviewed and updated or erased. Sometimes, the company may be under a legal obligation to keep the data for a certain number of years. This obligation extends to regular updates of that information.

#4: What Information are You Owed?

Every company that asks for your personal data information has an obligation to let you know:

• Who the company is and why they are collecting your data?
• Who will be receiving the data?
• That you have a right to withdraw your consent for their use of this data.
• That you have a right to file a complaint with the Data Protection Authority (DPA).
• How long data will be kept.

Know Your Rights, Protect Your Workforce Data

In understanding the limits of data collection and your protected rights, things can look a little confusing. For clarification on the new data storage and collection rules enacted throughout Europe, visit the official website of the EU.

To lear more about Revelio Labs workforce intelligence data, click here.