PA launches data protection toolkit

The Publishers Association has launched a new online toolkit for members to help them prepare for the upcoming General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which will introduce widespread changes to data protection laws in Europe.

The resources have been developed for the PA by law firm Harbottle & Lewis together with technology consultancy Stigmergist, following warnings publishers must comply with new data laws to avoid €20m fines. They will offer a full practical guide for publishers, outlining what they need to do to comply with the new regulations before they apply from 25th May 2018.

The toolkit includes a questionnaire to help publishers conduct their own data review, template policies and contracts, guidance on data processing contracts and transferring data outside the European Economic Area. It will also include a series of webinars with topics including an introduction to data protection and the GDPR, handling children’s data, data subject rights and data breaches. 

The PA said the package had been particularly designed to support smaller publishers "to ensure they have a straightforward, accessible route to compliance". Larger members will also benefit from using the resources as a reference point for their own GDPR preparations, it said.

Stephen Lotinga, chief executive of the PA, added: "The upcoming changes to data protection laws in the EU are causing a lot of anxiety to many businesses as they grapple with the full implications.

"We want to make sure that all publishers can really get a handle on how they process data and will do whatever we can to support our members to help them prepare before these new regulations apply. 

"We believe this toolkit will help the industry to take many of the practical measures necessary to ensure that they are compliant ahead of May 2018."