Complying with data protection regulations is not an optional matter for companies: it is a legal obligation that affects both large corporations and SMEs and freelancers. If your business processes personal data—from customers, employees, suppliers, or partners—you must apply the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Organic Law on Data Protection and Guarantee of Digital Rights (LOPDGDD).
Non-compliance with this regulation can result in significant financial penalties, but it also puts your company’s reputation at risk. Therefore, knowing the responsibilities and implementing appropriate measures is essential for any organization that wants to operate legally and safely.
What does complying with the law involve?
Respecting data protection principles goes far beyond including a privacy policy on the website. It means clearly informing people about how their data is processed, identifying the legal basis that legitimizes said processing, requesting consent when necessary, guaranteeing the confidentiality and security of information, documenting the entire process to be able to demonstrate compliance in the event of a possible inspection, and notifying any security breach to the Spanish Data Protection Agency (AEPD) and, if applicable, to those affected.
Are all companies obligated?
Yes. Any organization that, as part of its activity, processes personal data—such as names, addresses, phone numbers, or bank accounts—must comply with the regulations. This includes from a small shop to a large company, including consultancies, clinics, law firms, or technology companies.
Steps to adapt your company to the regulations
Complying with data protection requires planning and commitment. These are the essential steps that every company must follow:
- Identify the personal data you handle. Knowing what data you process and for what purpose will allow you to determine your obligations.
- Assess whether data transfers or international transfers occur. For example, if you subcontract services or use digital tools that access data, you must regulate it legally.
- Evaluate whether you need a Data Protection Officer (DPO). Not all companies are obligated, but in cases such as large-scale processing or sensitive data, it is mandatory.
- Implement appropriate security measures. From encryption to backup policies, according to the risk level of the processing you perform.
- Document the entire process. Internal policies, data processing contracts, activity records, legal clauses, etc.
- Facilitate the exercise of ARSULIPO rights. Citizens have the right to access, rectify, or delete their data, among others, and effective channels must be offered so they can exercise them.
- Design a protocol for security breaches. Establish how to act if unauthorized access or information loss occurs, and ensure notification within established deadlines.
- Conduct periodic audits. They allow detecting possible failures or risks and correcting them in time.
- Train your team. Aware and trained staff reduces the risk of human errors, one of the main sources of vulnerability.
Protecting personal data is not only a legal requirement, but also an opportunity to strengthen your customers’ trust and improve internal efficiency. Adapting to regulations requires time and resources, but the benefits outweigh the efforts. In an increasingly digital environment, information security is synonymous with corporate responsibility.
If you have questions, contact through the link with the Economic Office team and we can advise you on this matter.
