🗣 Good news for safeguarding your personal information! The European Data Protection Board (EDPB) has introduced a handy new tool to help you file complaints and resolve privacy issues when they involve multiple countries.
During their recent meeting, EDPB Chair Anu Talus announced the adoption of a template complaint form. This form is designed to simplify the process of submitting complaints by individuals and ensure that Data Protection Authorities (DPAs) can handle them efficiently.
Talus explained that this template was one of the commitments made by EDPB members during a meeting in Vienna last year. Its purpose is to encourage better cooperation among DPAs and save everyone’s time when dealing with cross-border cases.
The great thing about the template is that it takes into account the different laws and practices in each country. DPAs have the option to use it and adjust it to fit their specific national requirements.
This template can be used whether you file the complaint yourself or if someone else, like a legal representative or an organization acting on your behalf, submits it on your behalf.
Another helpful addition is the template acknowledgement of receipt. This document will give you an idea of what happens next after you submit your complaint, and also inform you about your right to challenge a DPA’s decision in court.
In addition to the complaint form, the EDPB has also released updated recommendations for organizations that want to use Controller Binding Corporate Rules (BCR-Cs) to protect data across borders. These recommendations provide a clear application form and explain what should be included in BCR-Cs. They also make sure that everyone follows the rules set out in the recent Schrems II ruling.
The EDPB wants to make sure that all organizations have a fair chance to apply for BCR-Cs. So, if you already have BCR-Cs in place or are planning to apply for them, you need to review and adjust them according to the new recommendations. This can be done either during the application process or as part of your annual update in 2024.
So, thanks to these new initiatives by the EDPB, it’s now easier for you to protect your data, file complaints, and ensure that your privacy rights are respected, even when dealing with multiple countries.