Swiss Federal Act on Data Protection (FADP)
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The revised Federal Act on Data Protection (FADP) modernizes Swiss data protection law, introducing enhanced requirements and stronger enforcement mechanisms.
Key Facts
- Enacted in 2023
- Enforced by Federal Data Protection and Information Commissioner
- Aligns with GDPR while maintaining Swiss specificity
Key Principles
Lawfulness and Transparency
Personal data must be processed lawfully, fairly, and transparently.
Requirements
- Valid legal basis for processing
- Clear privacy notices
- Transparent processing activities
- Documentation of legal grounds
- Regular compliance reviews
Examples
- Privacy notices on websites
- Consent management systems
- Processing records
- Documentation of legal bases
Data Minimization
Collection and processing of personal data must be limited to what is necessary.
Requirements
- Assess data necessity
- Limit collection scope
- Regular data reviews
- Deletion procedures
- Documentation of necessity
Examples
- Data collection forms
- Necessity assessments
- Deletion schedules
- Review procedures
Swiss-Specific Requirements
Additional requirements specific to Swiss data protection law.
Requirements
- Cross-border transfer rules
- Employee data protection
- Professional secrecy obligations
- Direct marketing restrictions
- Data breach notification
Examples
- Transfer documentation
- Employee privacy policies
- Secrecy agreements
- Marketing consent forms
Compliance Requirements
Data Protection Officer
Requirements for appointing and maintaining a Data Protection Officer position.
Implementation Steps
- Assess DPO requirement
- Appoint qualified DPO
- Ensure independence
- Provide resources
- Document activities
Required Documentation
- DPO appointment letter
- Qualification records
- Activity reports
- Training certificates
- Resource allocation
Processing Records
Maintenance of records of processing activities.
Implementation Steps
- Document processing activities
- Map data flows
- Update regularly
- Review compliance
- Maintain records
Required Documentation
- Processing records
- Data flow diagrams
- Review logs
- Update history
- Compliance reports
International Transfers
Requirements for transferring personal data outside Switzerland.
Implementation Steps
- Assess transfer mechanisms
- Implement safeguards
- Obtain authorizations
- Document transfers
- Monitor compliance
Required Documentation
- Transfer agreements
- Adequacy decisions
- Authorization records
- Transfer logs
- Monitoring reports
Enforcement & Penalties
Administrative Penalties
The Federal Data Protection and Information Commissioner (FDPIC) can impose significant administrative fines for violations.
Penalty Categories
Example Cases
Additional Measures
The FDPIC can impose various corrective measures beyond monetary penalties.