This month sees the launch of Forti5 Technologies Data Protection (GDPR) Bureau Service.
The bureau service was started due to the requests from a number of our clients as the role of the Data Protection Lead (DPL) has mainly been handed to one of their admin staff, therefore, requiring assistance with demonstrating their accountability for their data protection and privacy obligations.

Here are several reasons why a data protection bureau service can be advantageous:

• Expertise and Compliance: Data protection regulations, such as the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), impose stringent requirements on organisations handling personal data. A Data Protection Bureau service provides access to experienced professionals who possess in-depth knowledge of data protection laws and regulations. They can guide organisations in ensuring compliance, implementing necessary measures, and staying up to date with evolving privacy requirements.
• Cost-Effectiveness: A data protection bureau service offers a more cost-effective alternative. Using the service an organisation can access specialised expertise without the expenses associated with full-time employment, such as salaries, benefits, and training costs.
• Flexibility and Scalability: A data protection bureau service offers flexibility to adapt to an organization’s changing needs. They can provide services on-demand, allowing organisations to adjust the level of support required based on their data protection requirements. Whether it’s a short-term project or ongoing compliance support, a bureau service can accommodate different scales and durations.
• Impartiality and Independence: An external data protection bureau service can provide an impartial and independent perspective on an organisation’s data protection practices. They are not influenced by internal politics or conflicts of interest, which ensures a more objective assessment of compliance and privacy-related matters. This independence is crucial for maintaining transparency and accountability with data subjects, regulators, and other stakeholders.
• Enhanced Risk Management: A data protection bureau service can assist organisations in identifying and managing data protection risks effectively. They can conduct privacy impact assessments, LIA’s, perform audits, review data processing activities, and recommend measures to mitigate potential vulnerabilities. By proactively addressing privacy risks, organisations can avoid costly data breaches, legal penalties, and reputational damage.
• Access to Best Practices: A data protection bureau services often have exposure to various industries and clients, enabling them to gather insights into best practices and emerging trends in data protection. Leveraging their expertise, organisations can benefit from implementing robust data protection strategies, implementing privacy-by-design principles, and staying ahead of regulatory developments.

It’s important to note that while a data protection bureau service can provide valuable assistance, organisations still retain ultimate responsibility for ensuring compliance with data protection laws. Therefore, it’s crucial to select a reputable and trustworthy bureau service that aligns with an organisation’s specific needs and values.