Do you know what a data protection questionnaire is? Do you know what its purposes are and why you should have this in hand? Find out below.
Data Protection Questionnaire
A data protection questionnaire refers to a paper document or a PDF document that you can print out. It is a tool that can help you collect information from the parties involved in your data processing project.
Moreover, it can be used when you are outsourcing your data processing activities to another company. This form will help you gather the relevant details needed to transfer data to another jurisdiction. Also, this form should be used to ensure that the security of the personal data will not be compromised at any time.
If you have a business and are outsourcing this company’s data processing, then you have no choice but to fill in this questionnaire. If you do not do it, then by law, your company is considered liable for any breach of security that happens. Especially in the process of transferring or storing personal data.
Further, this questionnaire is used so that you can prove that you have taken all possible measures to ensure the security of your data. It is also proof that you properly assessed the risks involved in transferring personal data. And that you have remedies set up against these risks.
When filling out this questionnaire, always remember that it is not just there as a requirement. But also as a reminder for you to assess all possible risks involved in transferring information. And setting up appropriate solutions against these risks.
What Is in a Data Protection Questionnaire
The first section of this form is where the organization requesting your services would ask for information regarding your company. Such as its purpose, location, contact details, and how long it has been in operation.
The reason why they need these details is so they can make sure if your company has undergone yearly audits on its information systems. And if it has passed all necessary tests and assessments regarding security protocols.
In this section, they will also question if your company has a client who requires huge amounts of personal data from them. This led them to outsource their services to another company such as yours.
Also, they need this information because they want to know if there are any breaches or leaks on their systems. One that may have led them to transfer their data to another country. They might also ask about this. Because they need assurance that their personal information will not be leaked or breached. May it be during transfer or storage by your company’s facilities.
The second part of this questionnaire would require you to state how much experience your company has. This is when it comes to handling sensitive information. Such as medical records, financial records, academic records, criminal records, and more.
Conclusion
As you can see, you must get a data protection questionnaire. Because it helps you prove that you have taken the right measures in protecting the personal information of the parties involved. It is also proof that you have assessed all risks involved in transferring data.