The European Commission's Directive on Data Protection went into effect in October, 1998, and prohibits the transfer of personal data to non-European Union nations that do not meet the European "adequacy" standard for privacy protection. As a result of different approaches to privacy between the US and the EU, the Directive could have significantly hampered the ability of US businesses to engage in many trans-Atlantic transactions.
To bridge these different privacy approaches and provide a streamlined means for US organizations to comply with the Directive, the US Department of Commerce - in consultation with the European Commission - developed a "safe harbor" framework. The safe harbor - approved by the EU in July of 2000 - is an important way for US businesses to avoid experiencing interruptions in their business dealings with the EU or facing prosecution by European authorities under European privacy laws. Certifying to the safe harbor will assure that EU organizations know that your business provides "adequate" privacy protection, as defined by the Directive.
Visit the Department of Commerce "Safe Harbor" website.
How the BBB Can Help:
The Safe Harbor arrangement requires businesses to provide a dispute resolution option to consumers whose personal data they collect. The BBB is the best-known consumer dispute resolution system in North America. We created the EU Safe Harbor Privacy Dispute Resolution program to help businesses meet EU data directive standards and continue to conduct business in Europe.
Participation is as simple as "1,2,3".
- Complete the online application. In addition to your company contact information, you will need to know your sales revenue, and privacy policy web site address. After reading the rules and user agreement (click here to view user agreement) you will be able to submit the application online.
- Once submitted you will be provided with a reference number and the fee amount for your company’s participation in the program (click here to view fee schedule). You will also be provided with cover letter containing this information and mailing address of the program. Print and sign the letter, and mail it, along with your payment to the address already entered for you on the letter. Please include the reference number on your check.
- Your application will be reviewed. If any additional information is required we will contact you. Participants will receive an email notification indicating that we have received payment and your company has been accepted into the program once the process is complete.
Click here to begin the application.
Listing of US/EU Safe Harbor Dispute Resolution participants available here.