GDPR Compliance for Vehicle CCTV

On April 8th, 2016, the European Union (EU), adopted a new regulation called the “General Data Protection Regulation”, referred to simply as the “GDPR”. It replaces the Data Protection Directive 95/46/EC and applies to all EU member countries without the need for national legislation.

Established in 1995, the Data Protection Directive was a big step towards protecting the personal information of EU residents. But because it wasn’t standardised across all member states, there were inconsistencies that made it difficult for organisations operating across borders. The GDPR addresses these shortfalls by standardising the protection of data, regardless of location.

General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) which came into force in May 2018 have caused immense confusion in the industry with regard to vehicle CCTV and recording.

Some customers, unsure of the new data protection legislation, have started specifying vehicle cameras that do not identify members of the public worried that this will be a breach of people’s privacy. This has not been helped by a small handful of vehicle CCTV manufacturers falsely claiming ‘their product is GDPR compliant’. Finally, information in the media has been general at best.

What is GDPR?

GDPR is the new data protection law that stipulates how data should be protected and how people’s privacy should be respected. Some EU countries are already following these guidelines, so effectively the UK is catching up.

In a nutshell, GDPR is about the process of how you keep data secure, who has access to that data, how long you keep it, and how you are going to tell people that you are using their personal data and for what reason.

What Products are GDPR Compliant?

Tangible products cannot be GDPR compliant because it is about the handling of data, although customers should look for features and benefits that can help the operator to keep data secure.

For instance, Brigade’s MDR-64X series digital recorder has new admin isolation rights which allow operators to control access to data so restricted users can only view footage and are unable to download or edit. This allows operators greater control over data and helps them to comply with regulations. Another thing to consider when purchasing such systems is whether the footage is protected.

Brigade’s MDR-64X series digital recorder has a non-visible watermark so that tampered files will not play. It also features password-protected software and a lockable hard drive to further prevent unauthorised access to data.

Find out more about MDR-64X Series

Mockup of GDPR pack

How Brigade Can Help

We’ve put together a 12-page document that provides valuable guidance on how to ensure your organisation is compliant when using vehicle cameras and recording equipment.

Contents

GDPR Overview.
Example of GDPR compliance when using Mobile Digital Recording equipment.
Privacy for drivers.
Do’s & Don’ts Checklist

Download our GDPR pack and follow our digital recording checklist to ensure compliance with GDPR regulations for vehicle CCTV and recording systems.

Legal advice should be sought if you wish to rely on this information.

Download GDPR Guide

Digital Recording Checklist

Do's
Don'ts

Do's

Use digital recording products with features that control data and keep it secure.
Ensure that everyone is aware they are being filmed and place warning stickers inside the cab and externally on the vehicle.
Train staff on the benefits of recording systems and ensure they understand company policies.
Allow access to footage for investigative purposes, and provide images to individuals who request them in writing.
Register with a supervisory authority, such as the Information Commissioners Office (ICO), and report any breaches of personal data within 72 hours.