Data Protection in the Internet: A European Union Perspective

Abstract

A general overview of European Union law concerning data protection in the Internet is provided with a view to facilitate comparison with the regulatory framework in other relevant jurisdictions. The entry into force of the new General Data Protection Regulation has brought about significant changes in EU law. The new Regulation has become a particularly influential piece of legislation regarding Internet activities even beyond the EU. It has also triggered an intense debate about the challenges posed by the EU approach to the protection of personal data and its enforcement. Other EU instruments relevant in the field and the case law of the Court of Justice interpreting legislation on data protection law are also discussed.