Data Protection Impact Assessment under the GDPR

Introduction

Article 35 of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) requires data controllers to carry out Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs) when processing operations are likely to result in high risk to the rights and freedoms of natural persons.

When is a DPIA Required?

A DPIA is mandatory in the following cases:

Automatic Requirement

• Systematic and extensive evaluation of personal aspects based on automated processing
• Processing of special categories of data or personal data relating to criminal convictions on a large scale
• Systematic monitoring of publicly accessible areas on a large scale

Supervisory Authority Lists

• Processing operations included in national supervisory authority lists
• High-risk processing activities specific to each jurisdiction
• Novel or innovative processing methods

DPIA Content Requirements

Article 35(7) specifies that a DPIA must contain at least:

1. Description of Processing

• Nature, scope, context, and purposes of processing
• Categories of personal data
• Categories of data subjects
• Data retention periods

2. Necessity and Proportionality Assessment

• Purposes of processing and legal basis
• Legitimate interests pursued
• Necessity of processing for the purposes
• Proportionality measures

3. Risk Assessment

• Identification of risks to rights and freedoms
• Assessment of likelihood and severity
• Origin, nature, particularity, and severity of risks

4. Mitigation Measures

• Technical and organizational measures
• Safeguards and security measures
• Mechanisms to ensure protection of personal data
• Demonstration of compliance with GDPR

DPIA Process

1. Preparation Phase

• Determine DPIA necessity
• Assemble DPIA team
• Define scope and objectives
• Gather relevant documentation

2. Assessment Phase

• Map data flows and processing activities
• Identify and assess risks
• Evaluate existing measures
• Consult with stakeholders

3. Mitigation Phase

• Design additional safeguards
• Implement risk mitigation measures
• Document residual risks
• Plan monitoring and review

Consultation Requirements

Data Protection Officer (DPO)

• Mandatory consultation where DPO is appointed
• DPO advice on DPIA conduct
• DPO monitoring of DPIA performance

Data Subjects

• Seek views of data subjects where appropriate
• Consider data subject rights and interests
• Document consultation outcomes

Supervisory Authority

• Consultation required if high residual risk remains
• Prior consultation before processing begins
• Authority may impose additional measures

DPIA Review and Updates

• Regular review of DPIA validity
• Updates when processing changes significantly
• Monitoring of implemented measures
• Documentation of review outcomes

Penalties for Non-Compliance

• Administrative fines up to €10 million or 2% of annual turnover
• Processing prohibition orders
• Corrective measures requirements
• Reputational damage

Best Practices

• Integrate DPIA into project planning
• Use standardized DPIA templates
• Maintain DPIA register
• Regular staff training on DPIA requirements
• Establish clear DPIA governance