GDPR Shot: “Wild West” in political communication

Originally published: www.ethemis.gr (in Greek)
Date: 2/09/2020

Republished: newspaper “Estia” (in Greek)
Date: 5/09/2020

Aimilios Koronaios
Attorney at Law
LL.M. (Aberdeen), LL.M. (Athens)

A plethora of infringements have been uncovered in the field of political communication via spam emails and short text messages (SMS). Compliance with the rules is not strictly adhered to, despite the continuous strengthening of the legal framework for the protection of personal data and the consequent, increased awareness of the citizens. This is inferred from the seven recent decisions published by the Greek Data Protection Authority (DPA) on its website in relation to infringements in the field of political communication. All seven (Nos. 10-14/2020, 17/2020 and 19/2020) concern illegal political communication. In all cases the appropriate consent was not obtained from the recipients of unsolicited emails and SMS messages. Those involved were three MP candidates, two MEP candidates and two candidates in municipal elections! The DPA, upon receipt of the relevant complaints, imposed a barrage of fines totaling EUR 17,000.00. It is reminded that since last year the supervisory authority has issued Guidelines for the legal processing of personal data for the purpose of political communication, updating the provisions of relevant Directive 1/2010. Let those concerned keep them in mind, because the purpose of political communication does not justify the means. There are specific and clear rules for the processing of personal data that must be followed.