PwC Middle East’s new online platform to address data privacy compliance at DIFC

PwC Middle East has launched an online platform to help organisations based at the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) comply with the recently-launched DIFC Data Protection Law.

The DIFC data privacy assessment tool provides organisations with reports outlining their current status against the key requirements of the law, and recommendations on the steps they should take to improve.

Data privacy has been gaining momentum and importance around the world in recent years, with governments introducing new data privacy laws to protect the individual. The DIFC Data Protection law was introduced to boost the centre’s standing as a global financial centre, while promoting ethical data sharing. The law is applicable to DIFC-registered controllers and processors of personal data.

The self-assessment has been developed in line with PwC’s existing data protection framework, and tailored to the specifics of the DIFC Data Protection Law, the consulting firm says. The Law has been in effect since October 1, with organisations subject to fines for non-compliance.

“We welcome the introduction of the PwC’s Data Protection Compliance Maturity self-assessment tool, as we are confident it will help Controllers and Processors in the DIFC and beyond meet the new requirements and elevate their reputation within the industry,” said Jacques Visser, commissioner of Data Protection at DIFC Authority.

Read: Dubai’s DIFC FinTech Hive to host new accelerator for redundant employees

The online self-assessment is built on PwC’s ‘Digital Trust Manager: Assess’ platform, and uses business intelligence and data visualisation to help organisations take stock of their data privacy risks.

“Data privacy is an increasingly important area and we are dedicated to help improve the handling of personal data across the Middle East,” said Phil Mennie, partner, Digital Trust, PwC Middle East.