Raising the Bar for Data Privacy and Security
As advancements in technology continue to occur, data privacy and security have become a high priority for consumers and manufacturers. Security and privacy breaches such as the Facebook, Inc. and Cambridge Analytica have prompted government agencies and tech companies to take action in securing the safety of their citizens and/or consumers. On May 25th, 2018, the European Union implemented the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) a regulation on data protection and privacy for all individuals within the European Union (EU) and the European Economic Area (EEA). The GDPR supersedes the Data Protection Directive and contains additional requirements related to the processing of personal data of individuals inside the EU. The regulation also applies to an enterprise that is established outside of the EU that is processing the personal data of people inside the EU.
Is your software deployment GDPR compliant?
In many ways, GDPR is similar to regulations like 21 CFR Part 11, HIPAA, or ISO 17025:2017 in that a system can be configured for compliance. The system by itself cannot guaranteed compliance. Like these regulations, GDPR requires that your organization has effective processes in place, both within and outside of any software solution.
For example, if a user leaves a printed list of personal contact information for approved European suppliers or active customers on their desk, this could result in a breach. It is important to ensure that members of your organization have been appropriately trained on GDPR and that they understand what behavior and best practices will ensure that European citizens’ personal data is protected.
How does Platform for Science Software Support GDPR?
The security and privacy of customers who use Platform for Science software is of the highest importance to Thermo Fisher. Platform for Science software provides technical capabilities that can be configured by either Thermo Fisher implementation staff or the customer to ensure that only authorized individuals have access to data, and that data is secured in the proper fashion.
Some features (not limited to) in Platform for Science software that promote GDPR include:
- Access Controls
- Audit logs
- Search and reporting functionality
- Importing and exporting capabilities
Platform for Science software also utilizes Amazon Web Services to provide various cloud deployment options to its customers. The cloud offerings for Platform for Science software include top of the line technical security features such as data encryption, firewall technology, and intrusion monitoring and detection.
Want to Learn More? Opt-in
To ensure compliance with GDPR, anyone who requests information about the Platform for Science software is asked to opt-in and confirm that they would like to receive information about Thermo Fisher Scientific products and services via telephone, email, or other electronic means. There is also a statement detailing that the consumer is providing consent to the collection, processing, and use of personal data in accordance with the Thermo Fisher Scientific Privacy Policy. At any point, someone receiving a Thermo Fisher email can chose to opt-out of receiving further communication.
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