DSGVO for event organisers: how secure is your ticket shop?

The GDPR (DSGVO) may seem complex at first, but it offers you the opportunity to gain the trust of your participants and make your events safer and more professional.

Fun fact: Zettabytes of data are generated globally each year. Statista estimates that 126.32 zettabytes will be generated in 2023. (A single personal data record with name, address, email, and phone number requires approximately 0.001 GB. 126.32 zettabytes comprise a data volume of 126,320,000,000,000,000,000 possible data records). So, this topic is crucial.

In this guide, you will learn how to use the GDPR (DSGVO) to your advantage while ensuring your events comply with current legal requirements. Dive into the world of data protection with us and discover how to optimise your events.

In this section, we focus on the basic principles that should characterize every GDPR (DSGVO)-compliant event.

Data Minimization: Less is More
The principle of data minimization is simple: only collect the data that is absolutely necessary for your event. Complying with data protection laws not only fulfills legal requirements but also demonstrates respect and professionalism towards your customers.

Earmarking: Data Use with a Clearly Defined Purpose
Every data set you collect should have a specific, defined purpose. Be transparent about why certain information is needed and how it will be used. This transparency strengthens trust in your event and underscores your credibility as an organizer.

Transparency and Accountability: Open and Responsible Data Management
As the organizer, you are responsible for the data collected. This means you should be able to account for its use at all times. Clear and transparent communication about your data protection practices is essential for creating trust and security among your customers. Data protection compliance is an ongoing process and a commitment that extends beyond individual events. With these basics, you lay the foundation for a successful and GDPR (DSGVO)-compliant event.

Step-by-Step Planning with a Focus on Data Protection

Start with detailed planning that incorporates data protection aspects from the outset. This includes selecting the right tools and platforms and designing registration forms and communication strategies that comply with data protection regulations.

Obtaining Consent: How to Do It Right?

Obtaining participants’ consent for data collection and processing is a core component of the GDPR (DSGVO). Ensure that your registration processes are clear and understandable, and that customers explicitly consent before personal data is collected. Emphasize the principles of voluntariness and clarity.

Data Protection-Compliant Handling of Participant Data

Once data is collected, it must be securely managed and protected. Implement appropriate security measures to prevent data leaks or unauthorized access. Ensure that data is kept only as long as necessary and then properly deleted.

Preparing a GDPR (DSGVO)-compliant event requires care and attention to detail. By following these steps, you will ensure that your event is not only successful but also fully compliant with data protection regulations.

Online Ticket Shop: Security and Data Protection

The online ticket shop is often the first point of contact between organizers and participants, where sensitive data such as contact information and payment details are collected. Ensuring this process is GDPR (DSGVO)-compliant is crucial, involving secure data transmission and storage, as well as transparent communication about data usage.

CRM Systems: Data Centralization with Risks

CRM systems are central to managing customer relationships and store detailed information about your customers and prospects. Since they contain a large amount of personal data, they must be specially protected to ensure GDPR (DSGVO) compliance.

Newsletter: Consent and Transparency

When sending newsletters, it’s important to obtain recipients’ consent and clearly inform them which data is used for which purpose. Unsubscribe options must also be simple and efficient.

Interfaces as Points of Attack

The interfaces between different systems, such as between the ticket shop, CRM, and newsletter tool, are potential weak points for data breaches. Data must be transferred and processed securely to minimize risks.

Advantage of an Integrated Solution

Bringing together functions such as ticket sales, CRM, and newsletter dispatch in an integrated system can be highly advantageous. It simplifies the management and monitoring of data flows while reducing the number of interfaces, thus minimizing the risk of data breaches.

By understanding and carefully managing the GDPR (DSGVO) in these key areas, you can ensure legal compliance and strengthen your customers’ trust in you

Data Protection-Compliant Event Design

Ensure that all processes and activities during the event adhere to data protection rules. This includes securely handling customer information, complying with data protection guidelines when presenting content, and protecting participants’ privacy.

Legally Compliant Image and Sound Recordings

If you plan to record images or sound, ensure it complies with data protection regulations. Obtain consent and inform participants about the purpose and use of recordings.

Check-in and Guest Management: Efficient and Secure

Design the check-in and guest management processes to guarantee data security. Avoid displaying sensitive customer information publicly and restrict data access to authorized personnel only.

By integrating these aspects into your event planning, you not only ensure GDPR (DSGVO) compliance but also enhance participants’ trust and satisfaction

Data protection also plays a crucial role after the end of the event. Post-processing in compliance with the GDPR is an important step in ensuring the confidentiality and security of participant data in the long term.

Correct Handling of Data After the Event

After your event concludes, it’s crucial to manage collected data in compliance with GDPR (DSGVO) requirements. Assess whether the data is still necessary; if not, securely delete it. Adhere to specified retention periods and responsibly remove unnecessary data.

Obtaining Feedback in GDPR (DSGVO) Compliance

When gathering participant feedback, ensure GDPR (DSGVO) compliance by informing participants about data use and obtaining their consent. Integration into ticket shop purchases can simplify this process through voluntary consent.

Managing Data Breaches

In the event of data breaches, prompt action in accordance with GDPR (DSGVO) guidelines is essential. Establish a protocol for handling breaches, promptly notifying authorities and affected individuals as necessary. Complying with GDPR (DSGVO) post-event is not just a legal obligation; it demonstrates respect for participants. Thoughtful data management reinforces trust and enhances your reputation as a responsible organizer.

Understanding the Role of the Data Protection Officer

The Data Protection Officer (DPO) serves not only as a controller but also as an advisor and partner in implementing data protection-compliant processes. They assist in identifying risks and providing solutions to mitigate them.

Data Protection Impact Assessment: What is It?

A data protection impact assessment may be necessary for certain types of events. The DPO can assist in conducting this assessment to ensure accurate risk evaluation and mitigation.

Training and Counseling for Your Team

An essential aspect of data protection is ensuring all team members are aware and informed. The DPO can offer training and workshops to educate your team on data protection. Collaborating effectively with the DPO helps minimize data breach risks and ensures compliance with current legal requirements for your event.