GDPR

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) certification is a key initiative to help organizations demonstrate their commitment to data protection and compliance with the GDPR provisions. This regulation applies to all entities that process personal data of individuals residing in the European Union (EU), regardless of where the entity is based. According to GDPR Articles 42 and 43, data protection certification is a way for organizations to show their compliance measures, ensuring that they not only meet the required standards but also exceed them when possible. By obtaining GDPR certification, organizations are able to prove that they have implemented adequate safeguards for personal data processing, thus enhancing their credibility in the eyes of both clients and regulatory authorities.

Data subjects, or individuals whose data is processed, benefit from GDPR certification as it provides them with a quick and easy way to assess the level of protection their personal data is receiving. It gives them confidence that the organization has met GDPR requirements in relation to data processing. Certification acts as a public-facing accountability tool that shows transparency in the organization’s efforts to protect personal data, making it easier for data subjects and other entities, such as business partners and supervisory authorities, to trust the organization’s data practices.

To achieve GDPR certification, an organization must adhere to a certification scheme. A “certification scheme” outlines the processes and measures that must be followed to comply with GDPR requirements. It specifies the mechanisms in place for personal data processing and how the organization applies appropriate data protection controls and practices. Certification bodies, which are accredited entities, evaluate the organization’s data protection practices based on the requirements set forth in the certification scheme. If the certification body is satisfied that the organization meets these standards, it issues the certification, confirming that the organization complies with GDPR’s data protection criteria.

Requirements for GDPR Certification

If your organization is considering applying for GDPR certification, the following steps should be taken:

1. Find a Suitable Scheme: The first step is to identify a certification scheme that aligns with your organization’s needs, taking into account the nature of your product or service, as well as the scope of the data processing activities involved. For example, different schemes may exist for HR data processing, customer management databases, or online payment systems.

2. Select a Certification Body: GDPR certifications are issued by certification bodies, which must be accredited to carry out assessments under specific schemes. Your organization must apply directly to a certification body, which will assess your processing activities based on the selected certification scheme.

3. Define the Scope of Certification: Certification applies to specific processing operations or services. You must identify the “object of certification” or the specific product, process, or service you wish to have evaluated. For example, if you want to certify a marketing service or an online payment system, you will need to outline all the data processing activities associated with that service.

4. Map Data Processing Activities: As part of the certification process, organizations must document and map their data processing activities. This helps ensure that the processing activities related to the product or service are evaluated for GDPR compliance.

5. Compliance Check: You will need to ensure compliance with the relevant data protection regulations, including payment of the data protection fee and informing the certification body about any ongoing investigations or personal data breaches.

6. Submit for Assessment: Once everything is in place, the certification body will assess your organization’s data processing activities, looking at whether they meet the requirements set by the certification scheme.

The Process of GDPR Certification

The process of obtaining GDPR certification involves several key stages:

1. Application: The organization submits an application to the certification body, detailing its data processing activities and the scope of the product or service to be certified.

2. Review and Assessment: The certification body will review the organization’s data processing activities, policies, and procedures to ensure they meet the certification scheme’s requirements. If there are any non-compliances, the organization will need to address them before certification is issued.

3. Issuance of Certification: If the certification body finds that the organization meets the required standards, they will issue the GDPR certification. The certification is typically valid for a set period and may need to be renewed periodically.

4. Ongoing Monitoring: Certification is not a one-time process. Organizations are required to demonstrate continued compliance with GDPR by undergoing regular audits, reporting personal data breaches, and maintaining transparency with both the certification body and supervisory authorities.

5. Revocation of Certification: If the certification body discovers any serious compliance issues, such as a failure to adhere to GDPR’s data protection criteria, it may revoke the certification. Regular monitoring and reporting help ensure ongoing compliance.

Cost of GDPR Certification

The cost of obtaining GDPR certification varies depending on the size and complexity of the organization. Certification bodies typically charge a day rate for auditing and testing, and the cost will be determined by factors such as the scale of the processing operations, the number of systems to be evaluated, and the resources required for the assessment. It is advisable to contact the relevant certification body for a quote based on your organization’s specific needs.

Benefits of GDPR Certification

There are several key benefits to obtaining GDPR certification for your organization:

• Demonstrates Compliance: GDPR certification is a clear indication that your organization adheres to the highest standards of data protection, helping you build trust with clients, partners, and stakeholders.
• Increased Transparency: Certification enhances transparency in data processing operations and shows that your organization is committed to safeguarding personal data.
• Competitive Advantage: By obtaining GDPR certification, your organization can distinguish itself from competitors, particularly when bidding for contracts or expanding internationally.
• Regulatory Confidence: Certification helps ensure that your organization is aligned with GDPR’s requirements, reducing the risk of legal and financial penalties.
• Strengthens Data Protection Practices: Through the certification process, your organization can identify and address potential weaknesses in data protection practices, improving your overall security posture.

How to Get GDPR Certification with Petrocircle

Petrocircle is an expert service provider that can help your organization achieve GDPR certification. With extensive experience in international standards and certifications, Petrocircle offers expert consulting, implementation, auditing, and certification services to ensure your organization meets GDPR requirements. Our team will guide you through the entire certification process, ensuring that your data protection practices comply with GDPR provisions and help you maintain a secure and compliant data handling process.

Visit Petrocircle to learn more about how we can assist you in obtaining GDPR certification. Our experts are ready to support you every step of the way, ensuring that your organization meets the highest standards of data protection.