(Atlanta, GA – July 2017) The General Data Protection Regulation is the next generation of European Union (EU) data protection law and will take effect on May 25, 2018. This rule applies to all organizations that process or collect data from EU citizens, even if the business is not located within the EU. The penalties are significant, totaling up to 4% of global revenue or €20 million, whichever is greater.

VENZA continues to be a trusted source of guidance, with its current InfoSec Program set to include new GDPR-specific tools, beginning in August. Using its current training model, courses will be added throughout the learning curriculum to ensure that associates have the most appropriate resources per their positions. Additional GDPR-related tools and resources will be forthcoming, but a webinar is currently available on VENZAgroup.com, explaining the basics of GDPR and how it may impact organizations.

VENZA Partner and Co-Founder Daniel Johnson speaks frequently on the subject of GDPR and has been asked to join the HFTP Hospitality Data Protection Officer (HDPO) Task Force. The Task Force will be responsible for creating guidelines for HDPOs, along with a Hospitality Data Protection Officer certification program.

“GDPR is an accountability-based privacy law. Contained within the law are direct obligations that data controllers must satisfy, not the least of which is the designation of a Data Protection Officer (DPO),” says Johnson. “To adequately fulfill this role, a DPO will require an understanding of GDPR and business acumen, as well as technical and managerial skills. VENZA is thrilled to be seated among other industry experts to craft solutions that will help hoteliers prepare for the data security changes ahead.”

To further enhance its role as an international leader in data security and to continue its contribution to the global conversation on cybersecurity and privacy, VENZA has opened an office in Holland. The new VENZA office is located in The Hague, home of The Hague Security Delta (HSD), Europe’s #1 security cluster. Johnson will serve as that office’s Managing Director for the foreseeable future.

About VENZA
Drawing on decades of experience, VENZA can help organizations mitigate their data security vulnerabilities and ensure compliance, keeping guests and their data safe from breaches. By delivering a security solution for readiness, reassurance and response, VENZA offers 360-degree visibility for proactive management of risks—so users can focus on guest service and building trust in their brand. Better visibility means better defense. Know the risks, protect the enterprise with VENZA. More than 10,000 organizations in 100+ countries look to VENZA for tools, technology, and strategic security support. Founded in 2008, VENZA is a privately held company, headquartered in Roswell, GA. For more information, please call 770.685.6500 or visit VENZAgroup.com.