Many companies in Europe assume that choosing an EU-based cloud provider automatically means they are on the safe side. But when it comes to data protection in the cloud, it’s not quite that simple.
In this article, we highlight the limitations of GDPR-compliant cloud usage – and explain why true data sovereignty is often only achievable through local or hybrid solutions as a cloud alternative.
GDPR = Automatic Security?
An EU-based data center does not guarantee full GDPR compliance. What really matters is not just where the servers are located, but who has technical and legal access to the data.
US Laws Apply in Europe
Many large EU cloud providers are operated by US corporations or their subsidiaries. These are subject to laws such as the CLOUD Act and the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA).
Despite all efforts to offer and market a sovereign European cloud platform, Microsoft is not able to guarantee protection of data from US authorities.
Especially in light of a partly unpredictable US administration, the statement of a high-ranking Microsoft lawyer is likely to cause additional concerns when using cloud services with US ties.
Even with European hosting, US authorities can therefore access data – completely legally and often without the knowledge of the affected company. This significantly undermines data protection in the cloud.
What many providers don’t tell
Access to data by third parties can also occur without active cooperation (keyword: remote access rights)
Standard contractual clauses and Privacy Shield successors often offer only formal but not actual protection
Vendor lock-in prevents a quick switch in the event of compliance violations – a risk for any organization
What companies can do
For many organizations, it is worth taking a closer look at other hosting strategies – especially any cloud alternative that offers more control and transparency. Possible options:
On-premise solutions: Maximum control over data, infrastructure, and access rights
Private hosting with regional partners: Clearly defined responsibilities, personal contacts, full transparency
Hybrid models: Keep sensitive data local, scale less critical applications flexibly
These models often offer more data protection in the cloud by combining the advantages of the cloud with the security of local structures.
Conclusion: Transparency creates trust
Cloud services offer enormous advantages – no question. But true data sovereignty requires more than an EU label. It’s about truly understanding the legal framework, technical access options, and provider structures.
Anyone who takes data protection in the cloud seriously should carefully consider who they entrust their data to – and whether a cloud alternative might not be the safer long-term solution.
Want to know which cloud alternative really fits your data protection strategy? Talk to us – we’ll be happy to advise you.
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