Why your data is more secure in cloud storage in Germany
Quickly upload vacation photos, share a presentation with classmates, or exchange current project files with colleagues – the advantages of cloud storage are well known. With a PC, notebook, tablet, or smartphone, users can access their data through the Internet and share with family, friends, or colleagues. All too quickly, users resort to established cloud storage providers like Dropbox, iCloud, Google Drive, or Microsoft Onedrive. But be careful: the choice of provider will ultimately determine which data protection laws apply. Cloud and privacy are sensitive topics, to share files securely, have a deeper look into the laws with us.
Server location or company headquarters, cloud and privacy – what is essential for the data protection?
Which laws apply is determined by two factors in particular: the location of the company’s headquarters and the location of the servers. Within the EU, the company headquarters is the primary deciding factor. So each provider is initially subject to the data protection laws of the country where it has its headquarters.
But the server location also has an impact. For example, if a cloud provider has a branch office in the country where the servers are also located, this country regulates the data protection with its individual laws. The server location is also significant in terms of the applicable laws of intervention. Depending on the location, there may be surveillance measures and orders to provide authorities with data.
Data protection writ large: Teamplace relies on the “German cloud”
Only a “German cloud” – with server location AND company headquarters in Germany – brings clarity to the legal situation and the associated data. That is why we at Teamplace closed the server locations in Ireland and the USA in March 2016 in order to rely 100% on the server location in Germany.
As a German company, we adhere strictly to the Federal Data Protection Act and the Telemedia Act. Thus, the data and privacy of Teamplace users are protected by German law. Since Germany has one of the leading data protection laws worldwide, you are on the safe side at Teamplace.
Privacy remains a protected asset in Germany
Unlike at the cloud storage providers mentioned at the beginning, Dropbox, iCloud, Google Drive, and Microsoft Onedrive. Everyone should be aware of the security status of their own data when using the services of such American providers – at least since summer 2013, when Edward Snowden revealed the indiscriminate surveillance by American and British intelligence services.
Such invasions of privacy are barred by Germany’s constitution. Just a few days ago, the Federal Constitutional Court criticized the BKA Act, which gives the Federal Criminal Police Office broad powers of surveillance with the goal of preventive counterterrorism.
This law has now been declared in large part unconstitutional because it disproportionately violates the fundamental rights of citizens. It must now be rewritten so that Germany may continue to rank among the leading nations as regards the protection of personal data and privacy. Good news for cloud and privacy. Share files securely with Teamplace.