Is GDPR Shifting Focus to Personal Liability in Data Protection?

In 2024, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) fines issued across Europe amounted to €1.2 billion ($1.26 billion), marking a 33% decrease compared to €2.9 billion ($3.1 billion) in 2023, and this significant reduction represents the first annual decline since GDPR’s inception in May 2018. This decrease is mainly due to the absence of a single large fine such as the €1.2 billion penalty imposed on Meta in May 2023 for transferring personal data to the US using standard contractual clauses (SCCs). However, experts caution that this reduction does not indicate a decline in data protection enforcement in the EU.

Rigorous Focus on Data Protection Enforcement

Despite the lower fines in 2024, the focus on data protection enforcement remains rigorous. Ross McKean, Partner and Chair of DLA Piper’s UK Data Protection and Cyber Practice, highlighted that the reduced figures should not be misinterpreted as a downturn in regulatory activity. McKean emphasized that European data regulators continue to strictly enforce data protection laws.

The Irish Data Protection Commission (DPC) continues to lead in enforcement, with a cumulative total of €3.5 billion ($3.7 billion) in fines since 2018, significantly surpassing the Luxembourg Data Protection Authority, the next highest regulator. This underscores the robust enforcement landscape within Europe, contributing to the overall total of €5.88 billion ($6.17 billion) in reported fines since GDPR took effect.

Major Fines Targeting Big Tech

In 2024, big tech and social media companies remained major targets for substantial fines. Notable penalties included a €310 million ($326 million) fine by the Irish DPC against LinkedIn in October for its handling of personal data in advertising practices. Additionally, the Dutch Data Protection Authority (AP) imposed a €290 million ($324 million) fine on Uber in August for storing driver data in the US without adequate safeguards. Meta faced another significant penalty with a €251 million ($263 million) fine by the Irish DPC in December for a data breach affecting around 29 million Facebook accounts in 2018.

Moreover, enforcement actions extended into other sectors such as financial services and energy. An example of this broader reach includes the Spanish Data Protection Authority issuing two fines totaling €6.2 million ($6.5 million) against CaixaBank for failing to implement robust security measures.

Emerging Trend: Personal Liability

A noteworthy emerging trend in 2024 is the shift towards personal liability in data protection enforcement actions. This is best exemplified by the Dutch Data Protection Commission investigating the possibility of holding the directors of Clearview AI personally liable for multiple GDPR breaches, following a €30.5 million ($32.03 million) fine against the company. McKean observed that 2024 marked the beginning of significant focus on individual accountability, with projections for 2025 indicating even greater attention on personal liability and public naming to foster compliance.

Persistent Emphasis on Data Protection

In 2024, the total General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) fines levied across Europe amounted to €1.2 billion ($1.26 billion). This figure represents a significant 33% decline from the €2.9 billion ($3.1 billion) amassed in fines in 2023. Notably, this drop marks the first annual decrease since GDPR’s implementation in May 2018. The primary reason for this decline is the absence of any single large fine, like the massive €1.2 billion penalty imposed on Meta in May 2023 for transferring personal data to the United States using standard contractual clauses (SCCs). While this reduction in fines may seem like a relaxation of data protection enforcement within the European Union, experts emphasize that this is not the case. Authorities remain vigilant and committed to safeguarding personal data. The year 2023 was exceptional with the Meta fine skewing the numbers, hence 2024’s lower total shouldn’t be interpreted as a sign of diminishing regulatory rigor or enforcement efforts by the EU regarding data protection regulations.

Explore more

Why is LinkedIn the Go-To for B2B Advertising Success?

In an era where digital advertising is fiercely competitive, LinkedIn emerges as a leading platform for B2B marketing success due to its expansive user base and unparalleled targeting capabilities. With over a billion users, LinkedIn provides marketers with a unique avenue to reach decision-makers and generate high-quality leads. The platform allows for strategic communication with key industry figures, a crucial

Endpoint Threat Protection Market Set for Strong Growth by 2034

As cyber threats proliferate at an unprecedented pace, the Endpoint Threat Protection market emerges as a pivotal component in the global cybersecurity fortress. By the close of 2034, experts forecast a monumental rise in the market’s valuation to approximately US$ 38 billion, up from an estimated US$ 17.42 billion. This analysis illuminates the underlying forces propelling this growth, evaluates economic

How Will ICP’s Solana Integration Transform DeFi and Web3?

The collaboration between the Internet Computer Protocol (ICP) and Solana is poised to redefine the landscape of decentralized finance (DeFi) and Web3. Announced by the DFINITY Foundation, this integration marks a pivotal step in advancing cross-chain interoperability. It follows the footsteps of previous successful integrations with Bitcoin and Ethereum, setting new standards in transactional speed, security, and user experience. Through

Embedded Finance Ecosystem – A Review

In the dynamic landscape of fintech, a remarkable shift is underway. Embedded finance is taking the stage as a transformative force, marking a significant departure from traditional financial paradigms. This evolution allows financial services such as payments, credit, and insurance to seamlessly integrate into non-financial platforms, unlocking new avenues for service delivery and consumer interaction. This review delves into the

Certificial Launches Innovative Vendor Management Program

In an era where real-time data is paramount, Certificial has unveiled its groundbreaking Vendor Management Partner Program. This initiative seeks to transform the cumbersome and often error-prone process of insurance data sharing and verification. As a leader in the Certificate of Insurance (COI) arena, Certificial’s Smart COI Network™ has become a pivotal tool for industries relying on timely insurance verification.