What requirement has been enhanced under GDPR in relation to data handling practices?

Under GDPR, elevated accountability and transparency requirements have become essential components of data handling practices. This regulation mandates that organizations must not only comply with data protection principles but also demonstrate their compliance actively. This means that businesses need to have clear and documented processes in place that govern how personal data is collected, processed, and stored.

Moreover, organizations are now required to be transparent in their dealings with individuals about how their data will be used. This includes informing them about their rights and the purposes of data processing, thus promoting a culture of openness. Additionally, organizations must appoint a Data Protection Officer (DPO) when necessary and conduct regular audits to ensure compliance with the principles set forth by GDPR.

These enhanced accountability and transparency requirements are crucial for building trust with customers and protecting their rights, reflecting a significant shift in how data protection is approached compared to previous regulations.