Data Protection Officer, Controller, and Processor: Overview

Data Protection Officer (DPO)

Role: The Data Protection Officer oversees GDPR compliance.

• Requirement: Small organizations handling minimal data may not need to appoint a DPO.
• Appointment Criteria: A DPO is necessary if:
• You are a public authority.
• You conduct large-scale systematic monitoring of individuals.
• You process large-scale special categories of data.
• Responsibilities:
• Hold relevant qualifications and detailed GDPR knowledge.
• Report to top management and be fully involved in data protection matters.
• Cannot be penalized for carrying out their duties.

Data Controller

Definition: The entity determining the purposes and means of data processing.

• Examples: Individuals, organizations, companies, agencies, or public authorities.

Data Processor

Definition: The entity processing personal data on behalf of the controller.

• Examples: Individuals, organizations, companies, agencies, or public authorities.
• Role: Processes data without decision-making authority.
• Examples: Accountants handling payroll, online service providers like Salesforce.
• Distinguishing Factor: Processors do not control or make decisions about the data they process.

Entities can fulfill both controller and processor roles, depending on the context.