Book excerpt: The definitive guide for ensuring data privacy and GDPR compliance Privacy regulation is increasingly rigorous around the world and has become a serious concern for senior management of companies regardless of industry, size, scope, and geographic area. The Global Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) imposes complex, elaborate, and stringent requirements for any organization or individuals conducting business in the European Union (EU) and the European Economic Area (EEA)—while also addressing the export of personal data outside of the EU and EEA. This recently-enacted law allows the imposition of fines of up to 5% of global revenue for privacy and data protection violations. Despite the massive potential for steep fines and regulatory penalties, there is a distressing lack of awareness of the GDPR within the business community. A recent survey conducted in the UK suggests that only 40% of firms are even aware of the new law and their responsibilities to maintain compliance. The Data Privacy and GDPR Handbook helps organizations strictly adhere to data privacy laws in the EU, the USA, and governments around the world. This authoritative and comprehensive guide includes the history and foundation of data privacy, the framework for ensuring data privacy across major global jurisdictions, a detailed framework for complying with the GDPR, and perspectives on the future of data collection and privacy practices. Comply with the latest data privacy regulations in the EU, EEA, US, and others Avoid hefty fines, damage to your reputation, and losing your customers Keep pace with the latest privacy policies, guidelines, and legislation Understand the framework necessary to ensure data privacy today and gain insights on future privacy practices The Data Privacy and GDPR Handbook is an indispensable resource for Chief Data Officers, Chief Technology Officers, legal counsel, C-Level Executives, regulators and legislators, data privacy consultants, compliance officers, and audit managers.