GDPR Article 16

Right to rectification

  • The data subject shall have the right to obtain from the controller without undue delay the rectification of inaccurate personal data concerning him or her. Taking into account the purposes of the processing, the data subject shall have the right to have incomplete personal data completed, including by means of providing a supplementary statement.

· GDPR Article 16 Compliance Guide

Article 16 of the GDPR gives individuals the right to have inaccurate personal data corrected and incomplete data completed. While this might seem straightforward, implementing it effectively requires thoughtful processes. Here's how your business can comply:

Understanding the Requirements

Article 16 mandates two key obligations:

  • Correct inaccurate personal data without undue delay

  • Complete incomplete personal data, considering your processing purposes

Practical Implementation Steps

1. Create Accessible Rectification Channels

Set up multiple ways for data subjects to submit correction requests:

  • Dedicated email address (e.g., [email protected])

  • Online form on your website

  • Customer service channels with clear escalation paths

2. Establish a Verification Process

Before making changes:

  • Verify the requestor's identity using appropriate methods

  • Document the verification process to demonstrate compliance

3. Design a Clear Workflow

Create a step-by-step process:

  • Log all requests in a tracking system

  • Set response timelines (aim for under 30 days)

  • Designate team members responsible for handling requests

  • Implement approval mechanisms for complex cases

4. Update Connected Systems

Remember to:

  • Identify all locations where the data exists

  • Update the information across all systems and databases

  • Include third parties who received the data

5. Document Everything

Maintain records of:

  • Original request details

  • Actions taken to verify identity

  • Changes made to the data

  • Date of completion

  • Any communications with the data subject

Best Practices
  • Response Time: While "without undue delay" isn't precisely defined, aim to respond within one month

  • Transparency: Keep individuals informed about the status of their request

  • Training: Ensure staff understands the importance of data accuracy

  • Proactive Approach: Periodically invite customers to review and update their information

· GDPR Article 16 Compliance Guide

Article 16 of the GDPR gives individuals the right to have inaccurate personal data corrected and incomplete data completed. While this might seem straightforward, implementing it effectively requires thoughtful processes. Here's how your business can comply:

Understanding the Requirements

Article 16 mandates two key obligations:

  • Correct inaccurate personal data without undue delay

  • Complete incomplete personal data, considering your processing purposes

Practical Implementation Steps

1. Create Accessible Rectification Channels

Set up multiple ways for data subjects to submit correction requests:

  • Dedicated email address (e.g., [email protected])

  • Online form on your website

  • Customer service channels with clear escalation paths

2. Establish a Verification Process

Before making changes:

  • Verify the requestor's identity using appropriate methods

  • Document the verification process to demonstrate compliance

3. Design a Clear Workflow

Create a step-by-step process:

  • Log all requests in a tracking system

  • Set response timelines (aim for under 30 days)

  • Designate team members responsible for handling requests

  • Implement approval mechanisms for complex cases

4. Update Connected Systems

Remember to:

  • Identify all locations where the data exists

  • Update the information across all systems and databases

  • Include third parties who received the data

5. Document Everything

Maintain records of:

  • Original request details

  • Actions taken to verify identity

  • Changes made to the data

  • Date of completion

  • Any communications with the data subject

Best Practices
  • Response Time: While "without undue delay" isn't precisely defined, aim to respond within one month

  • Transparency: Keep individuals informed about the status of their request

  • Training: Ensure staff understands the importance of data accuracy

  • Proactive Approach: Periodically invite customers to review and update their information

· GDPR Article 16 Compliance Guide

Article 16 of the GDPR gives individuals the right to have inaccurate personal data corrected and incomplete data completed. While this might seem straightforward, implementing it effectively requires thoughtful processes. Here's how your business can comply:

Understanding the Requirements

Article 16 mandates two key obligations:

  • Correct inaccurate personal data without undue delay

  • Complete incomplete personal data, considering your processing purposes

Practical Implementation Steps

1. Create Accessible Rectification Channels

Set up multiple ways for data subjects to submit correction requests:

  • Dedicated email address (e.g., [email protected])

  • Online form on your website

  • Customer service channels with clear escalation paths

2. Establish a Verification Process

Before making changes:

  • Verify the requestor's identity using appropriate methods

  • Document the verification process to demonstrate compliance

3. Design a Clear Workflow

Create a step-by-step process:

  • Log all requests in a tracking system

  • Set response timelines (aim for under 30 days)

  • Designate team members responsible for handling requests

  • Implement approval mechanisms for complex cases

4. Update Connected Systems

Remember to:

  • Identify all locations where the data exists

  • Update the information across all systems and databases

  • Include third parties who received the data

5. Document Everything

Maintain records of:

  • Original request details

  • Actions taken to verify identity

  • Changes made to the data

  • Date of completion

  • Any communications with the data subject

Best Practices
  • Response Time: While "without undue delay" isn't precisely defined, aim to respond within one month

  • Transparency: Keep individuals informed about the status of their request

  • Training: Ensure staff understands the importance of data accuracy

  • Proactive Approach: Periodically invite customers to review and update their information