Privacy Lawyers

Online platforms can modify their terms of service and privacy policies without advance notice if: (1) Their terms explicitly allow such changes, and (2) Users continue using the platform after changes are made. However, modifications may still be challenged if they are unconscionable or violate privacy laws, particularly if they significantly impact user rights or data protection. While platforms may have the right to make unannounced changes, the enforceability depends on the specific modifications and their compliance with applicable regulations.

As an online business collecting customer data in Texas, you're right to be concerned about data protection compliance. Data privacy regulations depend on where your customers are and your volume of business. A Data Processing Agreement is a contract between a data controller (you, as the business owner) and a data processor (any third party that processes personal data on your behalf). It establishes the rights and obligations of each party regarding the processing of personal data. It helps ensure compliance with applicable data protection laws. It also discloses to your customers which companies are processing their data. Whether you need a DPA depends on several factors: Third-party services: If you use services like payment processors, cloud storage providers, email marketing platforms, or website hosting that access your customers' personal data, you likely need DPAs with these service providers. Applicable laws: While Texas doesn't have a comprehensive data privacy law like California's CCPA, it does have the new Texas Data Security and Privacy Act, which likely impacts you if your company earns 25%+ of its revenue from selling consumer data or hits other revenue thresholds. Laws in other states and in the EU also might apply. Industry standards: DPAs have become standard practice for demonstrating data protection compliance, regardless of strict legal requirements. Benefits of Implementing a DPA: Even if not strictly required by law in Texas, DPAs offer significant benefits: (1) clarify responsibilities between your business and service providers; (2) reduce legal liability through contractual protections; (3) increase customer trust by demonstrating a commitment to data protection; (4) preparation for evolving data protection laws; and (5) a potential competitive advantage over businesses without such protections. As data privacy regulations evolve, implementing DPAs now positions your business ahead of compliance requirements while building customer trust through demonstrated commitment to data protection. I use one in my practice. You should speak with an attorney who can provide a detailed DPA analysis based on your industry and customers.

This is a pretty standard document. The biggest concern is just making sure that the document reflects the reality of how customer data will be used. Usually a Privacy Policy is referenced in the terms, and is likely one of the most important documents for a CA startup.

A Data Processing Agreement (DPA) is a legally binding document that governs the relationship between the data controller and data processor in compliance with data protection laws such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Here are the key provisions that should be included: 1. Scope and Purpose • Clearly define the purpose of the data processing and the nature of the data being processed. • Specify the categories of data subjects (customers, employees). • Outline the types of personal data involved. 2. Roles and Responsibilities • Define the roles of the parties (controller vs. processor). • State that the processor will act only on the documented instructions of the controller. 3. Compliance with Laws • A commitment to comply with applicable data protection laws and regulations, such as the GDPR or CCPA. 4. Confidentiality • Ensure that the processor’s personnel are subject to confidentiality obligations. • Prohibit unauthorized access or sharing of data. 5. Security Measures • Require the processor to implement appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect personal data (encryption, access controls). • Include procedures for detecting and responding to data breaches. 6. Sub-processors • Outline conditions for engaging sub-processors ( prior authorization or notification). • Ensure sub-processors comply with the same data protection obligations. 7. Data Subject Rights • Require the processor to assist the controller in responding to data subject requests (access, correction, deletion). 8. Data Transfers • Specify the conditions for transferring personal data outside the European Economic Area (EEA) or other restricted jurisdictions. • Include safeguards such as Standard Contractual Clauses (SCCs) or Binding Corporate Rules (BCRs). 9. Data Breach Notification • Oblige the processor to notify the controller promptly in the event of a personal data breach. • Provide details on how incidents will be managed. 10. Audit Rights • Grant the controller or its appointed auditor the right to inspect and audit the processor’s compliance. 11. Retention and Deletion of Data • Specify the duration of processing. • Require the processor to delete or return personal data after the end of the contract or processing period. 12. Liability and Indemnification • Allocate liability for breaches or non-compliance. • Include indemnification provisions if appropriate. 13. Termination and Consequences • Address the conditions for terminating the DPA. • Define the post-termination obligations (data return or deletion). 14. Jurisdiction and Governing Law • Specify the governing law and jurisdiction for resolving disputes. 15. Annexes or Schedules • Include detailed annexes to provide additional information, such as: • A list of sub-processors. • A description of technical and organizational measures. • A record of processing activities. Legal Review Always consult a legal expert to ensure that the DPA aligns with the applicable laws and the specific needs of the parties involved.

Yes. If you sell to people in the European Union, the GDPR applies to you. It doesn’t matter where your business is based. Under Article 3, the law extends beyond Europe to cover any company that offers products or services to EU residents or tracks their behavior online. So if you accept orders from the EU, you're legally required to follow GDPR rules. The GDPR lays out key principles in Article 5. In simple terms: • You must have a lawful basis before collecting personal data (lawfulness). • Data must be collected and used fairly and transparently (fairness and transparency). • Only gather the minimum data necessary and for clear, legitimate purposes (purpose limitation and data minimisation). • Keep personal data accurate and update or correct it when needed (accuracy). • Don’t keep data longer than required for the stated purpose (storage limitation). • Protect data with appropriate technical and organizational safeguards (integrity and confidentiality). • Be able to show regulators that you comply with all of these rules (accountability). You also need to be able to prove you're doing all this if a regulator asks. When Are You Allowed to Use Customer Data? For things like shipping an order or taking payment, you’re covered by what's called the “contract” basis under Article 6(1)(b). You need info like names, addresses, and payment details to complete a sale. That’s allowed. For email marketing, things are stricter. Consent is usually required. That means a clear opt-in, like an unchecked box the customer has to actively click. Some EU countries allow limited “soft opt-in” for existing customers, but the rules vary by country. If you’re unsure, it’s safest to get clear consent before emailing EU customers with promotions. What Rights Do Customers Have Over Their Data? Articles 15–21 give EU customers a lot of control. They can: • Ask what data you have on them • Correct wrong info • Ask you to delete their data (in certain cases) • Tell you to stop using it • Opt out of marketing • Ask you to send their data to another company You need systems in place to respond to these requests quickly and efficiently. What About Cookies? The EU’s top court (in the Planet49 case) made it clear: you can’t assume consent for tracking cookies. That means: • No pre-checked boxes • No vague “we use cookies” banners • You must let users actively choose which types of cookies to allow • You need to record and prove that consent was given Your cookie banner should be easy to use and offer equal choices for accepting or rejecting cookies. How to Keep Customer Data Secure You’re expected to take technical and organizational steps to protect people’s personal data. That includes things like: • Using SSL/TLS encryption • Restricting access to databases • Having solid contracts with vendors who handle customer data If there’s a data breach, Article 33 says you must tell the relevant EU authority within 72 hours if the breach could put someone’s rights at risk. If it’s a serious risk to individuals, Article 34 says you also need to inform the affected customers. What If You Use Outside Vendors? If you work with third parties such as payment processors, email services, or cloud providers, you’re responsible for what they do with customer data. The GDPR requires you to sign Data Processing Agreements (DPAs) with them. These agreements must cover: • How they protect the data • Their legal obligations • How they’ll help you stay compliant You can’t skip this part. It’s not optional. Do You Need an EU Representative? If you regularly sell to EU customers, the answer is yes. Article 27 requires most non-EU businesses to appoint an official representative inside the EU. This rep acts as your point of contact for EU regulators and customers. You only get an exemption if: • You rarely process EU data • It’s low-risk • It doesn’t involve sensitive data But if you're actively targeting or shipping to EU customers, that exemption likely won’t apply. What Happens If You Don’t Comply? Regulators can fine you up to €20 million or 4% of your global annual revenue, whichever is higher. That said, small businesses aren’t usually hit with huge fines right away. Most EU regulators aim to help companies comply, especially if you’re clearly making an effort. But ignoring GDPR isn’t a good strategy. Being able to show you’ve taken real steps toward compliance is your best protection. Attorneys on Contracts Counsel are ready to help with GDPR compliance, including privacy policies, vendor contracts, and other legal obligations tailored to your business needs.