U.S. Businesses

This site provides information to help U.S. businesses understand the benefits and requirements of participation in the Privacy Shield.

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Benefits of Privacy Shield Participation

The Privacy Shield provides a number of important benefits to U.S.-based organizations, as well as their partners in the Europe. 

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How to Join Privacy Shield

To join, an eligible organization must develop a conforming privacy policy, identify an independent recourse mechanism and self-certify through this website.

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Requirements of Privacy Shield Participation

The Privacy Shield Principles lay out a set of requirements governing participating organizations’ use and treatment of personal data received from the EU and Switzerland. By joining the Privacy Shield, participants make a commitment to comply with these Principles that is enforceable under U.S. law.

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Administration of Privacy Shield Program

The Privacy Shield program is administered by the U.S. International Trade Administration (ITA). The information available here explains how ITA’s Privacy Shield team engages with participants.

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Enforcement of Privacy Shield Commitments

The Privacy Shield is enforced by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission and the U.S. Department of Transportation. The information available here explains how participating organizations’ commitments are enforced.
 

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Withdrawal from Privacy Shield

An organization is free to withdraw from the Privacy Shield program at any time. Information is provided here regarding the ongoing requirements related to data received under the Privacy Shield Framework.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to frequently asked questions about the Privacy Shield program and the self-certification requirements.

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How to Re-certify to Privacy Shield

Organizations are required to re-certify annually to remain on the Privacy Shield list and be assured of Privacy Shield benefits. Re-certification requirements are outlined here.

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