Are we GDPR compliant?

Questions CTOs ask

What are the key GDPR requirements for tech companies?

Tech companies must address six core GDPR areas: lawful basis for processing personal data, data subject rights (access, erasure, portability), data protection by design and default, breach notification within 72 hours, Data Protection Impact Assessments for high-risk processing, and appointing a Data Protection Officer if required. Penalties for non-compliance can reach 4% of global annual revenue or 20 million euros, whichever is higher.

How long does GDPR compliance take to implement?

For a typical SaaS company, achieving baseline GDPR compliance takes 3-6 months. This includes data mapping (2-4 weeks), updating privacy policies and consent mechanisms (2-3 weeks), implementing data subject request workflows (4-6 weeks), and establishing breach notification procedures. Companies with complex data flows or legacy systems may need 6-12 months. Ongoing compliance requires regular audits, staff training, and process updates.

Does GDPR apply to companies outside the EU?

Yes, GDPR applies to any organization that processes personal data of EU residents, regardless of where the company is located. If you have EU customers, users, or employees, GDPR applies to you. This extraterritorial scope means US-based SaaS companies serving European customers must comply fully, including appointing an EU representative if they lack a physical EU presence.