The protection of personal data has become one of the most pressing challenges for businesses. In Switzerland, the revised Federal Act on Data Protection (FADP/LPD) entered into force in 2023, aligning more closely with the European Union’s GDPR. For Swiss companies, understanding and complying with these obligations is essential to avoid fines and maintain customer trust.

One of the most important requirements is transparency. Companies must inform clients, employees, and partners about what personal data they collect, how it is used, and for how long it is stored. Clear privacy notices and easy-to-understand policies are now mandatory.

Another obligation concerns data security. Businesses must take appropriate technical and organizational measures to prevent unauthorized access, accidental loss, or misuse of data. This means ensuring secure IT systems, regular audits, and training for employees handling sensitive information.

Swiss companies must also respect data subject rights. Individuals have the right to access their data, correct inaccuracies, or request deletion. Businesses need internal processes to respond to these requests quickly and correctly.

Finally, companies engaging in high-risk data processing must conduct a data protection impact assessment. This ensures risks are identified and mitigated before new projects or systems are launched.

Compliance is not just about avoiding penalties. It is also about building trust in a digital economy where clients expect confidentiality and security. For SMEs and large organizations alike, strong data protection practices are now part of being competitive in Switzerland’s market.