View source for Article 32 GDPR

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<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="border-width: 0px" overflow:auto;">
<div style="font-weight:bold;line-height:1.6;">Chapter 1: General provisions</div>
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
<small>
[[Article 1 GDPR|Article 1: Subject-matter and objectives]]<br />
[[Article 2 GDPR|Article 2: Material scope]]<br />
[[Article 3 GDPR|Article 3: Territorial scope]]<br />
[[Article 4 GDPR|Article 4: Definitions]]<br />
</small>
</div></div>

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="border-width: 0px" overflow:auto;">
<div style="font-weight:bold;line-height:1.6;">Chapter 2: Principles</div>
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
<small>
[[Article 5 GDPR|Article 5: Principles relating to processing of personal data]]<br />
[[Article 6 GDPR|Article 6: Lawfulness of processing]]<br />
[[Article 7 GDPR|Article 7: Conditions for consent]]<br />
[[Article 8 GDPR|Article 8: Conditions applicable to child’s consent in relation to information society services]]<br />
[[Article 9 GDPR|Article 9: Processing of special categories of personal data]]<br />
[[Article 10 GDPR|Article 10: Processing of personal data relating to criminal convictions and offences]]<br />
[[Article 11 GDPR|Article 11: Processing which does not require identification]]<br />
</small>
</div></div>

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="border-width: 0px" overflow:auto;">
<div style="font-weight:bold;line-height:1.6;">Chapter 3: Rights of the data subject</div>
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
<small>
[[Article 12 GDPR|Article 12: Transparent information, communication and modalities for the exercise of the rights of the data subject]]<br />
[[Article 13 GDPR|Article 13: Information to be provided where personal data are collected from the data subject]]<br />
[[Article 14 GDPR|Article 14: Information to be provided where personal data have not been obtained from the data subject]]<br />
[[Article 15 GDPR|Article 15: Right of access by the data subject]]<br />
[[Article 16 GDPR|Article 16: Right to rectification]]<br />
[[Article 17 GDPR|Article 17: Right to erasure (‘right to be forgotten’)]]<br />
[[Article 18 GDPR|Article 18: Right to restriction of processing]]<br />
[[Article 19 GDPR|Article 19: Notification obligation regarding rectification or erasure of personal data or restriction of processing]]<br />
[[Article 20 GDPR|Article 20: Right to data portability]]<br />
[[Article 21 GDPR|Article 21: Right to object]]<br />
[[Article 22 GDPR|Article 22: Automated individual decision-making, including profiling]]<br />
[[Article 23 GDPR|Article 23: Restrictions]]<br />
</small>
</div></div>

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible" style="border-width: 0px" overflow:auto;">
<div style="font-weight:bold;line-height:1.6;">Chapter 4: Controller and processor</div>
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
<small>
[[Article 24 GDPR|Article 24: Responsibility of the controller]]<br />
[[Article 25 GDPR|Article 25: Data protection by design and by default]]<br />
[[Article 26 GDPR|Article 26: Joint controllers]]<br />
[[Article 27 GDPR|Article 27: Representatives of controllers or processors not established in the Union]]<br />
[[Article 28 GDPR|Article 28: Processor]]<br />
[[Article 29 GDPR|Article 29: Processing under the authority of the controller or processor]]<br />
[[Article 30 GDPR|Article 30: Records of processing activities]]<br />
[[Article 31 GDPR|Article 31: Cooperation with the supervisory authority]]<br />
[[Article 32 GDPR|Article 32: Security of processing]]<br />
[[Article 33 GDPR|Article 33: Notification of a personal data breach to the supervisory authority]]<br />
[[Article 34 GDPR|Article 34: Communication of a personal data breach to the data subject]]<br />
[[Article 35 GDPR|Article 35: Data protection impact assessment]]<br />
[[Article 36 GDPR|Article 36: Prior consultation]]<br />
[[Article 37 GDPR|Article 37: Designation of the data protection officer]]<br />
[[Article 38 GDPR|Article 38: Position of the data protection officer]]<br />
[[Article 39 GDPR|Article 39: Tasks of the data protection officer]]<br />
[[Article 40 GDPR|Article 40: Codes of conduct]]<br />
[[Article 41 GDPR|Article 41: Monitoring of approved codes of conduct]]<br />
[[Article 42 GDPR|Article 42: Certification]]<br />
[[Article 43 GDPR|Article 43: Certification bodies]]<br />
</small>
</div></div>

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="border-width: 0px" overflow:auto;">
<div style="font-weight:bold;line-height:1.6;">Chapter 5: Transfers of personal data</div>
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
<small>
[[Article 44 GDPR|Article 44: General principle for transfers]]<br />
[[Article 45 GDPR|Article 45: Transfers on the basis of an adequacy decision]]<br />
[[Article 46 GDPR|Article 46: Transfers subject to appropriate safeguards]]<br />
[[Article 47 GDPR|Article 47: Binding corporate rules]]<br />
[[Article 48 GDPR|Article 48: Transfers or disclosures not authorised by Union law]]<br />
[[Article 49 GDPR|Article 49: Derogations for specific situations]]<br />
[[Article 50 GDPR|Article 50: International cooperation for the protection of personal data]]<br />
</small>
</div></div>

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="border-width: 0px" overflow:auto;">
<div style="font-weight:bold;line-height:1.6;">Chapter 6: Supervisory authorities</div>
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
<small>
[[Article 51 GDPR|Article 51: Supervisory authority]]<br />
[[Article 52 GDPR|Article 52: Independence]]<br />
[[Article 53 GDPR|Article 53: General conditions for the members of the supervisory authority]]<br />
[[Article 54 GDPR|Article 54: Rules on the establishment of the supervisory authority]]<br />
[[Article 55 GDPR|Article 55: Competence]]<br />
[[Article 56 GDPR|Article 56: Competence of the lead supervisory authority]]<br />
[[Article 57 GDPR|Article 57: Tasks]]<br />
[[Article 58 GDPR|Article 58: Powers]]<br />
[[Article 59 GDPR|Article 59: Activity reports]]<br />
</small>
</div></div>

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="border-width: 0px" overflow:auto;">
<div style="font-weight:bold;line-height:1.6;">Chapter 7: Cooperation and consistency</div>
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
<small>
[[Article 60 GDPR|Article 60: Cooperation between the lead supervisory authority and the other supervisory authorities concerned]]<br />
[[Article 61 GDPR|Article 61: Mutual assistance]]<br />
[[Article 62 GDPR|Article 62: Joint operations of supervisory authorities]]<br />
[[Article 63 GDPR|Article 63: Consistency mechanism]]<br />
[[Article 64 GDPR|Article 64: Opinion of the Board]]<br />
[[Article 65 GDPR|Article 65: Dispute resolution by the Board]]<br />
[[Article 66 GDPR|Article 66: Urgency procedure]]<br />
[[Article 67 GDPR|Article 67: Exchange of information]]<br />
[[Article 68 GDPR|Article 68: European Data Protection Board]]<br />
[[Article 69 GDPR|Article 69: Independence]]<br />
[[Article 70 GDPR|Article 70: Tasks of the Board]]<br />
[[Article 71 GDPR|Article 71: Reports]]<br />
[[Article 72 GDPR|Article 72: Procedure]]<br />
[[Article 73 GDPR|Article 73: Chair]]<br />
[[Article 74 GDPR|Article 74: Tasks of the Chair]]<br />
[[Article 75 GDPR|Article 75: Secretariat]]<br />
[[Article 76 GDPR|Article 76: Confidentiality]]<br />
</small>
</div></div>

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="border-width: 0px" overflow:auto;">
<div style="font-weight:bold;line-height:1.6;">Chapter 8: Remedies, liability and penalties</div>
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
<small>
[[Article 77 GDPR|Article 77: Right to lodge a complaint with a supervisory authority]]<br />
[[Article 78 GDPR|Article 78: Right to an effective judicial remedy against a supervisory authority]]<br />
[[Article 79 GDPR|Article 79: Right to an effective judicial remedy against a controller or processor]]<br />
[[Article 80 GDPR|Article 80: Representation of data subjects]]<br />
[[Article 81 GDPR|Article 81: Suspension of proceedings]]<br />
[[Article 82 GDPR|Article 82: Right to compensation and liability]]<br />
[[Article 83 GDPR|Article 83: General conditions for imposing administrative fines]]<br />
[[Article 84 GDPR|Article 84: Penalties]]<br />
</small>
</div></div>

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="border-width: 0px" overflow:auto;">
<div style="font-weight:bold;line-height:1.6;">Chapter 9: Specific processing situations</div>
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
<small>
[[Article 85 GDPR|Article 85: Processing and freedom of expression and information]]<br />
[[Article 86 GDPR|Article 86: Processing and public access to official documents]]<br />
[[Article 87 GDPR|Article 87: Processing of the national identification number]]<br />
[[Article 88 GDPR|Article 88: Processing in the context of employment]]<br />
[[Article 89 GDPR|Article 89: Safeguards and derogations relating to processing for archiving purposes in the public interest, scientific or historical research purposes or statistical purposes]]<br />
[[Article 90 GDPR|Article 90: Obligations of secrecy]]<br />
[[Article 91 GDPR|Article 91: Existing data protection rules of churches and religious associations]]<br />
</small>
</div></div>

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="border-width: 0px" overflow:auto;">
<div style="font-weight:bold;line-height:1.6;">Chapter 10: Delegated and implementing acts</div>
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
<small>
[[Article 92 GDPR|Article 92: Exercise of the delegation]]<br />
[[Article 93 GDPR|Article 93: Committee procedure]]<br />
</small>
</div></div>

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="border-width: 0px" overflow:auto;">
<div style="font-weight:bold;line-height:1.6;">Chapter 11: Final provisions</div>
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
<small>
[[Article 94 GDPR|Article 94: Repeal of Directive 95: /46: /EC]]<br />
[[Article 95 GDPR|Article 95: Relationship with Directive 20: 02: /58: /EC]]<br />
[[Article 96 GDPR|Article 96: Relationship with previously concluded Agreements]]<br />
[[Article 97 GDPR|Article 97: Commission reports]]<br />
[[Article 98 GDPR|Article 98: Review of other Union legal acts on data protection]]<br />
[[Article 99 GDPR|Article 99: Entry into force and application]]<br />
</small>
</div>
</div>
|}

==Legal Text==
<br /><center>'''Article 32 - Security of processing'''</center>

<span id="1">1.   Taking into account the state of the art, the costs of implementation and the nature, scope, context and purposes of processing as well as the risk of varying likelihood and severity for the rights and freedoms of natural persons, the controller and the processor shall implement appropriate technical and organisational measures to ensure a level of security appropriate to the risk, including inter alia as appropriate:</span>

::<span id="1a">(a)   the pseudonymisation and encryption of personal data;</span>

::<span id="1b">(b)   the ability to ensure the ongoing confidentiality, integrity, availability and resilience of processing systems and services;</span>

::<span id="1c">(c)   the ability to restore the availability and access to personal data in a timely manner in the event of a physical or technical incident;</span>

::<span id="1d">(d)   a process for regularly testing, assessing and evaluating the effectiveness of technical and organisational measures for ensuring the security of the processing.</span>

<span id="2">2.   In assessing the appropriate level of security account shall be taken in particular of the risks that are presented by processing, in particular from accidental or unlawful destruction, loss, alteration, unauthorised disclosure of, or access to personal data transmitted, stored or otherwise processed.</span>

<span id="3">3.   Adherence to an approved code of conduct as referred to in Article 40 or an approved certification mechanism as referred to in Article 42 may be used as an element by which to demonstrate compliance with the requirements set out in paragraph 1 of this Article.</span>

<span id="4">4.   The controller and processor shall take steps to ensure that any natural person acting under the authority of the controller or the processor who has access to personal data does not process them except on instructions from the controller, unless he or she is required to do so by Union or Member State law.</span>

==Relevant Recitals==
{{Recital/75 GDPR}}
{{Recital/76 GDPR}}
{{Recital/77 GDPR}}
{{Recital/78 GDPR}}
{{Recital/79 GDPR}}
{{Recital/83 GDPR}}

==Commentary==
Article 32(1) GDPR reflects the principle of integrity and confidentiality enshrined in Article 5(1)(f) GDPR. The controller and the processor must implement appropriate technical and organizational measures in order to realise an appropriate level of security, taking into account the state of the art, the implementation costs as well as the nature, scope, context and purposes of processing. Consideration must also be given to the processing operation’s impact on the rights and freedoms of natural persons.<ref>The CJEU has consequently recognised data security as an integral part of the right to data protection in Article 8 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union. See, CJEU, Joined Cases C‑293/12 and C‑594/12, ''Digital Rights Ireland Ltd'', 8 April 2014, margin number 29 (available [https://curia.europa.eu/juris/document/document.jsf?text=&docid=150642&pageIndex=0&doclang=EN&mode=lst&dir=&occ=first&part=1&cid=5458073 here]).</ref> 

=== (1) Measures appropriate to the risk ===
Article 32 GDPR requires controllers and processors to implement measures that ensure an appropriate level of security. The word 'appropriate' appears not less than three times in Article 32(1): "''the controller and the processor shall implement appropriate technical and organisational measures to ensure a level of security appropriate to the risk, including inter alia as appropriate"''. This indicates that controllers and processors must identify the situation specific risks, assess their potential impact having regard to the particular circumstances of the processing and implement measures to mitigate (at least) those risks which are the most likely to materialise and those whose impact would be the most severe.<ref>References to "appropriateness" "''can be seen as a way of expressing the importance of the principle of proportionality, which is a general principle of EU law, in determining how to ensure data security. A proportionality analysis generally inquires whether the means used to achieve an aim corresponds to the importance of the aim and whether it is necessary for its achievement''". ''Burton'', in Kuner, Bygrave, Docksey, The EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR): A Commentary, Article 32 GDPR, p. 635 (Oxford University Press 2020).</ref>  

==== The controller and the processor ====
Article 32 addresses both the controller and processor. Hence, in contrast to the general controller's GDPR responsibility, the provision sets out an additional and direct responsibility of the processor for ensuring security.<ref>Unlike the general responsibility for data processing under Articles 24 and 25, which lies on the controller, under Article 32 the processor bears direct responsibility for ensuring security. This creates an additional obligation beyond the one derived from the contract with the controller under Article 28(3)(c) of the GDPR. The underlying rationale for this choice is practical. While the controller theoretically has the ability to assess the processor's security standards (Article 28(3)(h) GDPR), in practice, it is the processor who possesses direct knowledge and control over the (portion of) processing operations it is entrusted with. The legislative decision is therefore sensible and logical. ''Jandt'', in Kühling, Buchner, DS-GVO BDSG, Article 32 GDPR, margin number 4 (C.H. Beck 2020, 3rd Edition).</ref> The provision does not directly apply to software and device manufacturers. However, similarly to what happens under Article 25, Article 32 GDPR holds practical significance when it comes to the controller or processor's selection of software and hardware, which must meet the required security standard. In situations of uncertainty, products that do not enable data protection-compliant usage should not be employed.<blockquote><u>Case-law</u>: The Finnish DPA held that four cities in Finland had, among others, unlawfully transferred personal data to the US by using Google Analytics and Google Tag Manager on their public library online services, among the others in breach of Article 32 GDPR. The DPA ordered them to delete the data collected through these tools.<ref>Tietosuojavaltuutetun toimisto (Finland) - 4672/161/2022 (available [[Tietosuojavaltuutetun toimisto (Finland) - 4672/161/2022|here]]).</ref></blockquote>

==== Taking into account ====
Article 32(1) outlines the factors that the controller and processor must consider when conducting the assessment on which measures are "appropriate" to contain the risks. These factors include the state of the art, the implementation costs, the nature, scope, context, and purposes of the processing, as well as the varying likelihood and severity of risks to the rights and freedoms of individuals.

===== State of the art =====
Article 32(1) GDPR makes use of the same concept - "state of the art" - that was already used in Article 25(1). For these reason, we refer to the comment on that provision. The practical question whether "state of the art" encompasses the latest technological advancements or if adherence to industry standards and practices is sufficient is particularly relevant in the context of security systems. According to the majority of scholars, "state of the art" does not necessarily refer to the absolute best or most advanced technologies. Rather, it encompasses well-established, proven, and effective measures that are currently available in the market.<ref>When determining the available technology, it is essential to consider various factors, including market conditions. The assessment should take into account the prevailing market situation and the practices followed by competitors. Furthermore, it is important to consider information and recommendations provided by government agencies. For example, guidance from authorities like the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) and their IT baseline protection catalogs can provide valuable insights and should be taken into consideration. ''Piltz'', in Gola, Datenschutz-Grund-verordnung, Article 32 GDPR, margin number 19 (C. H. Beck 2018, 2nd edition).</ref><blockquote><u>Case-law</u>: Sending an e-mail containing sensitive data with ordinary TLS-encryption instead of end-to-end encryption, widely available on the market, was deemed insufficiently secured under Article 32(1) GDPR. The controller received a reprimand instead of a fine as it had increased the security of its communication solutions.<ref>IMY (Sweden) - DI-2021-4355 (available [[IMY (Sweden) - DI-2021-4355|here]]).</ref></blockquote>

===== Costs of implementation =====
The second criterion for selecting appropriate technical measures and organisation are the implementation costs. When calculating costs, all necessary expenses related to the implementation of the measures should be considered, including acquisition and installation costs prior to processing initiation, as well as operational and maintenance costs during the ongoing processing. An economic analysis should be conducted to assess the relationship between costs and risks. The higher the level of risk associated with the data processing, the more economically justifiable it is for the controller to invest in implementing the necessary technical measures. Cost-intensive measures that offer minimal additional risk reduction may not be required.<ref name=":0">''Jandt'', in Kühling, Buchner, DS-GVO BDSG, Article 32 GDPR, margin number 28 (C.H. Beck 2020, 3rd Edition).</ref>

===== Nature, scope, context and purpose of processing =====
This includes the ''nature'' of the processing (manual or automated), the ''scope'' of the processing (amount of data subjects affected, amount of data collected, bulk or individual processing, sensitivity of the data), the ''context'' of the processing (how many parties are involved, which systems are used, etc.), and the ''purposes'' of the processing.

===== Risks of varying likelihood and severity for rights and freedoms of natural persons =====
Finally, controllers and processors should complete a risk assessment before carrying out a processing operation. Although the provision applies to all types of risks, Article 32(2) GDPR indicates that specific attention should be paid to certain categories of risk, such as the accidental or unlawful destruction, loss, alteration, unauthorised disclosure of, or access to personal data transmitted, stored or otherwise processed. Recital 83 GDPR also suggests that not all of these are actually relevant. Indeed, the risk should also “''lead to physical, material or non-material damage''”. It can therefore be argued that a potential risk of e.g. “''destruction''” will not be relevant if it is no tangible harm is caused to data subjects. 

For further elements, see commentary under Article 32(2) GDPR below. 

==== Shall implement measures to ensure a level of security appropriate to the risk ====
Controllers and processors should identify security measures that, taking into account the above criteria, can mitigate identified risks.  

The GDPR does not require the use of any particular technology or technical standard with regard to data security. Indeed, Recital 15 stipulates that "''the protection of natural persons should be technologically neutral and should not depend on the techniques used''". Technical measures typically encompass hardware, software, and network components that are directly involved in data processing. Additionally, organisational measures should also be implemented. For example, controllers and processors should: allocate responsibility between themselves; require each person authorised to process personal data to participate in training activities; draft and follow internal policies, disciplinary measures, and internal guidelines; and adhere to codes of conduct or certification mechanisms.<ref>However, it is neither feasible nor practical to strictly separate these two categories. For instance, establishing a role and authorization framework to ensure confidentiality and purpose limitation necessitates both defining authorizations as an organizational measure and implementing them technically through the allocation of access credentials. See, ''Jandt'', in Kühling, Buchner, DS-GVO BDSG, Article 32 GDPR, margin number 5 (C.H. Beck 2020, 3rd Edition).</ref> 

After having identified a list of theoretically applicable measures, controllers and processors must choose and implement measures which can ensure an “''appropriate''” level of security. This indicates that they must implement measures that can mitigate at least those risks which are the most likely to materialise and whose impact would be the most severe.<ref>''Burton'', in Kuner, Bygrave, Docksey, The EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR): A Commentary, Article 32 GDPR, p. 636 (Oxford University Press 2020).</ref> The controller and the processor are required to undertake suitable technical and organizational measures within their respective domains. They must document the rationale behind their selection of these measures and how they evaluated the mentioned criteria.<ref>''Hansen'', in Simitis, Hornung, Spiecker gen. Döhmann, Datenschutzrecht, Article 32 GDPR, margin number 20 (C.H. Beck 2019).</ref>

==== Including inter alia as appropriate ====
Article 32(1) GDPR enumerates four ''examples'' of technical security measures<ref>Hence, this list is non-exhaustive, see ''Hladjk,'' in Ehmann, Selmayr, Datenschutz-Grundverordnung, Article 32 GDPR, margin number 6 (C.H. Beck 2018, 2nd Edition).</ref> that controllers and processors should implement "''as appropriate''".<ref>''Piltz'' correctly points out that the German version of the GDPR contains a translation error according to which the measures listed could be considered mandatory. The other language versions, however, clearly suggest that the measures contained in the list are merely illustrative. The English version, for example, uses the expression 'as appropriate'. ''Piltz'', in Gola, Datenschutz-Grundverordnung, Article 32 GDPR, margin number 24 (C.H. Beck 2018, 2nd Edition).</ref> These include pseudonymisation and encryption of personal data (Article 32(1)(a) GDPR); the ability to ensure the ongoing confidentiality, integrity, availability and resilience of processing systems (Article 32(1)(b) GDPR); the ability to restore the availability and access to personal data in a timely manner in case of an incident (Article 32(1)(c) GDPR) and a process for regularly testing, assessing and evaluating the effectiveness of security measures (Article 32(1)(d) GDPR).<ref>This list lacks legal certainty for the controller or processor. In other words, even implementing all measures stated in the list does not guarantee that the requirements outlined Article 32(1) are considered fulfilled. This provision functions as an incomplete catalog of measures, serving only as guidance for the controller or processor. See, ''Jandt'', in Kühling, Buchner, DS-GVO BDSG, Article 32 GDPR, margin number 14 (C.H. Beck 2020, 3rd Edition).</ref>

===== (a) Pseudonimysation and encryption =====
According to Article 4(5) GDPR, "pseudonymisation" means the processing of personal data in such a manner that the personal data can no longer be attributed to a specific data subject without the use of additional information, provided that such additional information is kept separately and is subject to technical and organisational measures to ensure that the personal data are not attributed to an identified or identifiable natural person.<blockquote><u>Example</u>: XXX</blockquote>Although the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) does not explicitly define the concept of encryption, it is described in Article 34(3)(a) according to which encryption is an effective method for rendering personal data inaccessible to unauthorized individuals.<ref>By encrypting data, for instance, it becomes possible to avoid the need for notifying data subjects in case of a breach of personal data protection as stated in Article 34 GDPR.</ref> The cryptographic techniques employed for encryption, in accordance with the current state of the art, play a vital role in ensuring information security in line with the provisions of Article 32 GDPR.<ref>Symmetric encryption methods, such as AES, Blowfish, IDEA, RC6, and Twofish, employ the same parameter (key) for both encryption and decryption. They are well-suited for tasks like disk or file encryption. On the other hand, asymmetric cryptographic methods, like ECC, ElGamal, and RSA, rely on a key pair consisting of a public key and a private key. The private key is known only to the authorized person. When sending a message to that person, the public key is used to encrypt it, and only the authorized person can decrypt the message using the corresponding private key. Asymmetric cryptographic methods can also be used for electronic signing, ensuring the integrity and authenticity of data. See, ''Hansen'', in Simitis, Hornung, Spiecker gen. Döhmann, Datenschutzrecht, Article 32 GDPR, margin number 35 (C.H. Beck 2019).</ref>

===== (b) Ongoing confidentiality, integrity, availability and resilience of processing systems and services =====
Controllers and processors must implement measures which are able to ensure ongoing confidentiality, integrity, availability,<ref>Confidentiality, integrity, and availability are the fundamental objectives of IT security, representing the core protection goals. These goals are widely recognized and form the foundation of any Information Security Management System (ISMS) in practical implementation. The primary purpose of an ISMS is to plan, implement, monitor, and continuously enhance information security concepts, ensuring the fulfillment of these objectives. See, ''Hladjkin'' Ehmann, Selmayr, Datenschutz-Grundverordnung, Article 32 GDPR, margin number 8 (C.H. Beck 2018, 2nd Edition).</ref> and resilience of the processing systems and services used. The objective is to continuously  maintain security requirements over the entire duration of processing ("''ongoing...''"). This ensures that security measures are consistently applied in a dynamic and ongoing manner.

The term "''systems''" should be interpreted broadly, encompassing not only technical systems for automated processing but also systems supporting paper-based processing. Similarly, the concept of "''services''" falls under the same understanding. The individuals involved in handling these systems and services play a role in the processing of personal data. Regular training to maintain an ongoing awareness of risks and the importance of adhering to established rules for data protection are also essential and must not be bypassed.<ref>''Hansen'', in Simitis, Hornung, Spiecker gen. Döhmann, Datenschutzrecht, Article 32 GDPR, margin number 37 (C.H. Beck 2019).</ref>

"''Confidentiality''" is not only a technical notion but a GDPR principle established in Article 5(1)(f) GDPR. It entails safeguarding information from unauthorized disclosure, allowing access to confidential data and information solely by authorized individuals through approved means. Measures implemented to ensure or facilitate confidentiality include data encryption, access control systems, permissions, and authentication based on one or multiple factors.<ref>''Hansen'', in Simitis, Hornung, Spiecker gen. Döhmann, Datenschutzrecht, Article 32 GDPR, margin number 39 (C.H. Beck 2019).</ref>

"''Integrity''" is also referred to as a principle in Article 5(1)(f) GDPR. Various references to integrity can be found in different contexts, such as the completeness or authenticity of data (Recital 49) and the right to rectification (Article 16 GDPR). Integrity encompasses both the integrity of data and the proper functioning of systems. Unauthorized modifications constitute a breach of information integrity, impacting not only the actual content but also meta-data such as the author, sender, and creation timestamp. To protect integrity, measures such as electronic signatures or check digits, input controls (logging) to track who accessed, modified, or deleted personal data and when, as well as authorization systems for managing access, are employed.<ref>''Hansen'', in Simitis, Hornung, Spiecker gen. Döhmann, Datenschutzrecht, Article 32 GDPR, margin number 40 (C.H. Beck 2019).</ref>

The term "''availability''" refers to the likelihood that a technical system will fulfill specific requests within an agreed-upon timeframe. Systems and services are considered available if they can be used at any given time. When systems and services are unavailable, controllers and processors are unable to maintain control over the personal data processed through them. Impairments to availability can range from minor delays in usability to complete system failures that last for an extended period. Various factors can contribute to such impairments, including defective hardware, faulty software, power supply issues, or disrupted network connections. To ensure availability, diverse security measures may need to be implemented, such as providing complete replacement systems or individual backup systems, emergency power supplies, and conducting regular functional tests.<ref>''Jandt'', in Kühling, Buchner, DS-GVO BDSG, Article 32 GDPR, margin number 25 (C.H. Beck 2020, 3rd Edition).</ref>

Companies will also have to ensure the "''resilience''" of the systems and services related to processing. The GDPR does not describe which measures contribute positively to resilience. In IT, resilience is the ability of an information system to continue to: (i) operate under adverse conditions or stress, even if in a degraded or debilitated state, while maintaining essential operational capabilities; and (ii) recover to an effective operational posture in a time frame consistent with mission needs.<ref>https://nvlpubs.nist.gov/nistpubs/Legacy/SP/nistspecialpublication800-39.pdf (accessed on 12.6.2023).</ref> In other words, it is about the tolerance and compensatory ability of a system against disturbances.<blockquote><u>Example</u>: Suppose there is a network consisting of multiple nodes. If one of the network nodes is targeted and disrupted by an attack, the system demonstrates resilience if the overall functionality of the network remains unaffected because another network node seamlessly takes over its function. In this scenario, the system's resilience is evaluated based on its ability to withstand a certain number of attacks without experiencing significant functional limitations. This measurement, known as "k-resilience," quantifies the system's capability to handle multiple attacks while maintaining its operational integrity.<ref>''Jandt'', in Kühling, Buchner, DS-GVO BDSG, Article 32 GDPR, margin number 26 (C.H. Beck 2020, 3rd Edition).</ref></blockquote>Resilience measures involve minimizing attack possibilities, such as by implementing essential functionality and promptly installing security updates to improve systems security. Additionally, detecting attacks or disruptions and responding appropriately is crucial. Training employees to identify issues and learn from mistakes is also important. Processing should be designed to minimize damage during incidents, such as by transitioning to a fail-safe mode or automatically disconnecting from the Internet in given cases. Creating opportunities for intervention, including human intervention, can further enhance resilience.<ref>''Hansen'', in Simitis, Hornung, Spiecker gen. Döhmann, Datenschutzrecht, Article 32 GDPR, margin number 45 (C.H. Beck 2019).</ref>

===== (c) Ability to restore availability and access to personal data in a timely manner =====
Article 32(1)(c) requires that systems and services be capable of restoring the availability and access to personal data in the event of a physical or technical incident. Unlike in the preceding provision (b), in this case the incident has occurred (and it must have a technical or physical nature). For example, one can consider scenarios such as physical destruction or loss of storage devices, unauthorized data encryption resulting from a ransomware attack (technical incident), or the destruction of system components due to fire, flooding, or devastation (physical incident). In such cases, controllers and processors must be able to restore availability and access to personal data. 

In practice, security measures had to be implemented before the incident occurred to be effective. Examples of measures include regular backups or even the necessity to store data on multiple in different locations.<ref name=":0" />   

The expression "''in a timely manner''" does not establish a specific deadline, as the timeline depends on the factual circumstances and the seriousness of the issues the controller is dealing with. However, this wording must be understood as indicating that the controller shall restore availability and access "as soon as possible".<ref name=":0" />   

===== (d) Regularly testing, assessing and evaluating =====

=== (2) Certain risks must always be taken into account ===
The second paragraph builds on Article 32(1) in the sense that it provides examples of the risks that are most likely to occur, and/or the most severe (accidental or unlawful destruction, loss, alteration, unauthorised disclosure of, or access to processed personal data). ''Burton'' notes that these risks are somewhat similar to the criteria that need to be considered when a DPIA is carried out.<ref>''Burton'', in Kuner, Bygrave, Docksey, The EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR): A Commentary, Article 32 GDPR, p. 636 (Oxford University Press 2020).</ref> 

=== (3) Codes of conduct and certification mechanisms ===
In line with the accountability principle, Article 32(3) GDPR stipulates that adherence to codes of conduct or certification mechanisms can be used as an element to demonstrate compliance with the Regulation, although neither of these reduce the controller or processor’s responsibility ([[Article 42 GDPR|Article 42(4) GDPR]]). However, if asked to prove they took all possible measures to avoid the violation, adherence to these would undoubtedly be acknowledged.<ref>''Riccio'', ''Scorza'', ''Belisario'', GDPR e normativa privacy, p. 299 (Wolters Kluwer 2018).</ref> 

=== (4) Natural persons acting under the authority of the controller or the processor ===
Most processing operations involve the use of human resources. Whenever a person is authorised to access personal data, a data security issue obviously arises. For these reasons, Article 32(4) GDPR requires the controller and processor to ensure that such persons act solely and exclusively on the instructions of the controller. The verb 'ensure' indicates that controllers and processors must provide some form of guarantee with respect to the result.  

The provision also speaks of "''any'' ''natural person'' [...] ''who has access to personal data''". This includes employees, freelancers, interns, external consultants or employees of service companies, insofar as they have access to personal data. In contrast, other third parties, including visitors or customers who access the data unlawfully, are not included in the definition, as they do not act "''under the authority of the controller or processor''".<ref>''Martini'', in Paal, Pauly, DS-GVO Article 32, margin number 65 (C.H.Beck 2021, 3rd Edition).</ref> 

To comply with this obligation, controllers and processors should establish clear rules of conduct, internal instructions and sanctioning procedures. Technical measures that prevent unauthorised access are also essential in certain cases. Controllers and processors must also regularly check whether these measures are effective and actually followed.<ref>''Martini'', in Paal, Pauly, DS-GVO Article 32, margin number 66 (C.H.Beck 2021, 3rd Edition).</ref> 

==Decisions==
→ You can find all related decisions in [[:Category:Article 32 GDPR]]

==References==
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[[Category:GDPR Articles]]