Data Processing Agreement (DPA)

Definition

A contract between a data controller and a data processor that sets how data is to be handled, processed, and protected.

Why it matters

DPAs help organizations comply with data protection laws and regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union. They provide clarity and transparency in the relationship between data controllers and processors, specifying the responsibilities, obligations, and rights of each party concerning data processing.This includes clear standards for data security, breach notification, and other related processes, such as what measures must be taken to protect data and how to respond if something goes wrong.