Amid the impending enforcement of GDPR regulations, UK firms are stepping up compliance efforts. Many are incorporating GDPR-specific roles in response to significant legal changes.
As the deadline approaches, organisations face serious penalties for non-compliance, prompting an upsurge in hiring and training efforts. This initiative reflects a proactive stance towards navigating complex regulatory landscapes.
As the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) deadline looms, nearly a quarter of UK businesses have opted for new hires focusing solely on compliance. With potential fines reaching up to 20 million euros, this proactive hiring strategy underlines the serious approach some firms are adopting. However, several companies are yet to take similar steps, risking non-compliance penalties.
Alarmingly, 60% of businesses have yet to initiate training or planning to ensure staff are equipped post-May 2018. Furthermore, 30% of decision-makers remain unaware of the law’s implications, highlighting a gap in knowledge and preparedness. Surprisingly, even within IT businesses, 10% have not engaged with GDPR at all, demonstrating potential vulnerabilities.
In the realm of data protection, some troubling statistics arise. It is reported that 4% of IT service businesses are currently non-compliant with existing UK data laws. Furthermore, 20% admit their current safeguards are insufficient to protect customer data, pointing to pressing issues in organisational security measures. As custodians of data, these businesses face stark risks.
Tom Moore, managing director of Litmos Heroes, stresses immediate action to avoid hefty fines. Emphasising the broad impacts of GDPR, Moore highlights the necessity of training and awareness, stating, “It is not too late, but businesses must act swiftly.” The study from Litmos Heroes paints an urgent picture, underscoring the essential need for preparedness.
GDPR is set to apply universally to any organisation handling EU citizens’ data, irrespective of Brexit outcomes. Adopted in April 2016, the regulation standardises data privacy across Europe. For businesses, this means reshaping data privacy strategies to align with the impending legal framework, a crucial shift to maintain operational compliance.
Non-compliance with GDPR could lead to fines of up to 4% of annual global turnover. With enforcement looming, 90% of businesses admitted unpreparedness if the regulation were enforced immediately. The potentially severe financial implications make it imperative for organisations to prioritise readiness and align with legal requirements to avert risks.
To counter the widespread lack of awareness, Litmos Heroes offers comprehensive training modules. These resources aim to bridge knowledge gaps and equip businesses with essential understanding and tools to meet GDPR standards. With fines and enforcement on the horizon, leveraging such educational materials is crucial for corporate compliance.
The shift towards increased GDPR hiring and preparation highlights businesses’ resolve to meet legal standards. With enforcement imminent, readiness remains vital to safeguarding organisational interests.
Firms must continue prioritising GDPR compliance to avoid penalties, ensuring all employees are adequately trained and informed.