The European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS) has said a data transfer pact between the EU and US needs “significant improvements”. – BBC News
Once again concerns over our data and protection have been brought to the attention of the masses as the EU watchdog says that the Privacy Shield Pact needs significant improvements.
What does this mean for schools? Nothing has changed we still need to make sure our data is protected and stored in parts of the world that can guarantee no mass surveillance of data.
How can I tell where my data is being stored?
All of the companies you are likely to use will have a FAQ section. It will take a little bit of digging but just read through and you will find the information you are looking for. If you are using backup services such as Amazon or Microsoft you are prompted to select where you want your data to be stored.
HWB – UK Based – Developed on Microsoft Office 365
Has this snippet of information in its Privacy Policy:
The information that we collect from you may be transferred to and be stored at a destination outside of the European Economic Area (“EEA”). It may also be processed by individuals operating outside the EEA who work for us or one of our contractors. By submitting your personal data, you agree to this transfer, storing or processing. Welsh Government will take all steps reasonably necessary to ensure that your personal data is treated securely and in accordance with this privacy policy.
Full policy can be found here
SeeSaw – US Based:
- Seesaw is Safe Harbor Certified and complies with U.S.-EU Safe Harbor Framework and the U.S.-Swiss Safe Harbor Framework as set forth by the U.S. Department of Commerce regarding the collection, use, and retention of personal information from European Union member countries and Switzerland.*
Full policy can be found here
Google Education – US Based:
Google has a data center in Ireland. Read about that here.
As with all of these links and products you really need to read the small print for each service they provide to make sure that they are using the data center you want. Its also worth noting that large US companies even though they have European Headquarters are probably still under US laws and so your data may still fall under these laws and surveillance.
Where can I find out more about Privacy Shield?
The Information Technology Industry Council (ITI) is the global voice of the tech sector.
The WikiPedia Entry:
The BBC Technology Entry: