Number of data protection complaints up by 50% – what companies need to know now

The number of data protection complaints filed with data protection supervisory authorities has risen by around 50% in recent years. This trend is no coincidence, but has several causes:

• Increased sensitivity: People today are much more aware of how their personal data is handled – partly due to data breaches being widely reported in the media.
• Stricter laws: The GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) has raised the bar for companies and strengthened the rights of data subjects.
• More active authorities: The EU has strengthened the powers of the authorities, leading to more audits and easier complaint filing.
• Technological change: The increasing use of cloud services and AI raises new data protection issues that data subjects are increasingly questioning critically.

Failure to comply with data protection rules can lead to far more than a simple warning letter. The economic impact can be substantial:

• High fines: Penalties have often doubled in recent years and can reach millions of euros.
• Compensation claims: Affected individuals are increasingly asserting private claims for damages.
• Audits: A single complaint often triggers intensive, time-consuming investigations by supervisory authorities.
• Reputational damage: A public data protection scandal can permanently damage trust among customers and partners.

To meet rising requirements, a systematic approach is essential:

• Data governance framework: Implement clear responsibilities and processes within your organization.
• Regular audits: Conduct internal risk assessments to identify weaknesses before authorities do.
• Comprehensive documentation: Carefully document all measures - when it comes to enforcement, the rule is: “If it’s not documented, it didn’t happen.”

Studies show that around 60% of all data protection incidents are caused by human error. Even the best technology is ineffective if employees are unsure how to handle data.

• Build understanding of data protection laws and internal policies.
• Raise awareness of common sources of error (e.g. phishing, incorrect email recipients).
• Offer regular refresher training to embed data protection as part of company culture.

In addition to the human factor, technology provides essential safeguards:

• Encryption: Protect data both at rest and in transit.
• Access controls: Implement granular permission management based on the “need-to-know” principle.
• Monitoring systems: Use automated checks that immediately alert you to unauthorized access.

Supervisory authorities now act more strategically. They are no longer just advisors, but active enforcers. However, a cooperative approach is often the best way to avoid escalation. Authorities offer guidance, but impose clear sanctions in cases of negligence to incentivize better compliance standards.

• Clearly define responsibilities within the team and review them regularly.
• Conduct practical training sessions for all employees (especially when using AI).
• Technically document data security measures and access rights.
• Introduce data governance tools for systematic data management.
• Establish processes for rapid reporting of data protection incidents.
• Assess new technologies (AI, cloud) for data protection risks already during the planning phase (privacy by design).

The rising number of data protection complaints sends a clear message: data protection must not be taken lightly. With structured processes, regular training, and modern technology, you can minimize risks and strengthen your customers’ trust.

What financial risks arise from fines?

Depending on the violation, fines can amount to up to 4% of global annual turnover, which can have significant economic consequences.

How do complaints affect reputation?

Frequent complaints create distrust among customers and may trigger negative attention on social media or in the press, weakening customer loyalty.

Want to take your compliance to the next level?

It’s worth taking the first steps now - because data protection is not only a legal obligation, but also a real competitive advantage. We support you at every step and make sure you can fully focus on your business.