Data protection impact assessments (DPIAs) for external data
When a data project is likely to pose high risk to individuals, the GDPR requires a data protection impact assessment. For external data, the DPIA is also a practical sourcing tool. This guide explains when and how to run one.
Available across the EU. DataSupplier sources and delivers this data in all 27 European Union countries — including Germany, France, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands and Poland — and across the EEA, in the format and cadence you need.
What a DPIA is
A data protection impact assessment (DPIA) is a structured process to identify and minimise the privacy risks of a processing activity. Under the GDPR it is mandatory where processing is likely to result in a high risk to individuals.
When external data triggers a DPIA
Common triggers include large-scale processing, combining datasets, location or behavioural data, and profiling. Many external-data projects, especially those merging sources or using device-derived data, will meet a trigger.
The assessment process
- Describe the processing and its purpose.
- Assess necessity and proportionality.
- Identify risks to individuals.
- Define mitigations and residual risk.
Mitigations that often emerge
DPIAs frequently lead to data minimisation, aggregation, anonymisation or pseudonymisation, and tighter access controls, exactly the preparation a managed sourcing process can apply.
Why it helps sourcing
Running the DPIA early shapes the requirement: it tells you the least identifying form of data that still serves the purpose, which is cheaper and safer to source. It also evidences accountability.
Practical note
This is general information, not legal advice; confirm DPIA obligations for your situation with qualified counsel.
- A DPIA is mandatory where processing is likely to be high-risk.
- Combining datasets, location and profiling commonly trigger one.
- DPIAs often lead to minimisation, aggregation and anonymisation.
- Running it early shapes a safer, cheaper data requirement.
Sources & further reading
- EUR-Lex: Regulation (EU) 2016/679 (GDPR), Article 35.
- European Data Protection Board: DPIA guidelines.
- National data protection authorities: DPIA templates.
- ENISA: privacy risk management.
We help shape requirements around minimisation and anonymisation that support your DPIA. Get a no-obligation quote.