The Best GDPR Training Tools

In today’s increasingly digital world, data has become one of the most valuable assets for businesses and organizations of all sizes. However, with the vast amount of data being collected and processed, concerns about data privacy and security have also grown significantly.

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), implemented in 2018, stands as a landmark piece of legislation designed to protect the privacy rights of individuals and regulate the way organizations handle personal data. Compliance with GDPR is not just a legal requirement but also a crucial step in building trust with customers and stakeholders

Ensuring that your team is well-versed in GDPR principles and practices is essential. This is where GDPR training tools come into play. These tools have emerged as indispensable resources for organizations striving to meet GDPR compliance standards and safeguard sensitive data.

In this article, we will explore the best GDPR training tools available, equipping you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about the right tools to enhance your data protection efforts. Whether you are a seasoned privacy professional or just beginning your GDPR compliance journey, these tools will prove invaluable in navigating the complex landscape of data protection regulations.

Here is our list of the best GDPR training tools:

1. KnowBe4 This anti-phishing company also offers data protection training through a library of videos that are organized into courses that cover issues such as caution over opening emails and attachments.
2. SANS Security Awareness A flexible training platform that provides a training needs assessment system as well as the actual course menu, which includes GDPR training.
3. IAPP Data Protection Training A training organization that provides courses for individuals and for companies with online and in-person training options.
4. Fortra Terranova Security A training platform for data privacy issues that includes a GDPR course.
5. OneTrust Platform This provider specializes in compliance systems that include consent management and has solutions for GDPR.
6. Skillsoft This platform offers interactive video courses that include GDPR training from an overview to specific recommendations for marketing teams.
7. Inspired eLearning GDPR Training This course provides an overview of GDPR with particular attention to how US businesses should approach compliance.

The Best GDPR Training Tools

By taking into account these criteria, we selected training providers and cybersecurity advisors that provide guidance and information on GDPR as well as full training courses.

1. KnowBe4

KnowBe4 has established itself as a pioneering force in the realm of security awareness and data protection training. Its distinctive feature lies in its dynamic and captivating approach to content delivery. Gone are the times of monotonous and uninteresting training sessions. Thanks to its intuitive interface and an array of multimedia elements, learning is transformed into a not only effective but also enjoyable experience.

Key Features:

• Safety advice
• Anti-phishing practices
• Video Library
• Safety-based quizzes and games
• Posters and newsletters

Why do we recommend it?

KnowBe4 addresses the weakest point in your data protection strategy, which is the human element. No matter how strong your data protection strategy is, it can always be sabotaged or just bypassed by user carelessness or refusal to comply with the rules. This system provides user awareness to strengthen your weakest link.

Furthermore, the platform provides an extensive collection of data protection training modules that can be tailored to suit the unique requirements of a wide range of organizations. While KnowBe4’s primary focus is on cybersecurity awareness and phishing prevention, its training platform can be a valuable asset in GDPR training by helping organizations raise awareness, educate employees about data protection, and monitor compliance efforts. Integrating KnowBe4 into your GDPR training strategy can contribute to a more comprehensive approach to data privacy and security.

KnowBe4 plays a valuable role in GDPR training by addressing the following key aspects of GDPR compliance:

• Phishing Awareness GDPR places a strong emphasis on protecting personal data from breaches, and phishing attacks are a common vector for such breaches. KnowBe4’s platform offers simulated phishing campaigns to educate employees about the dangers of phishing and how to recognize phishing attempts. This helps organizations reduce the risk of falling victim to phishing attacks, which could lead to data breaches.
• Data Protection Awareness GDPR mandates that organizations have a clear understanding of how personal data is processed and protected. KnowBe4’s training modules can include content on data protection principles, the importance of securing personal data, and the legal implications of mishandling such data. This can help employees understand their responsibilities under GDPR.
• Compliance Training GDPR requires organizations to ensure that their employees are aware of the regulation and how it impacts their roles. KnowBe4 can provide GDPR-specific training content, quizzes, and assessments to test employees’ knowledge of GDPR requirements and ensure compliance.
• Reporting and Monitoring GDPR also emphasizes the need for monitoring and reporting data breaches. KnowBe4’s platform allows organizations to track and report on simulated phishing campaigns, training progress, and employee performance. This data can be useful for demonstrating compliance efforts and identifying areas that may need further attention.
• Customization KnowBe4’s training materials can be customized to align with an organization’s specific GDPR compliance needs. This flexibility allows organizations to tailor their training programs to address their unique data protection challenges.
• Continuous Learning GDPR compliance is an ongoing process. KnowBe4 offers a library of security awareness content that can be continually updated to reflect changes in GDPR and evolving security threats. This ensures that employees remain informed and vigilant over time.

Who is it recommended for?

KnowBe4 provides per-user pricing, which should make this training package suitable for all sizes of businesses. However, the charge rate for the system starts with a minimum of 25 users. So, that puts a floor under the size of businesses that will be drawn to this package.

KnowBe4’s impact is most pronounced in its ability to empower employees as the primary guardians of data within an organization. Through real-world simulations and scenario-based training, employees are immersed in situations that mirror the complexities of actual data breaches. This hands-on approach not only enhances their understanding of potential threats but also hones their skills in identifying and responding to suspicious activities.

2. SANS Security Awareness

SANS Institute is one of the largest sources of cybersecurity and data protection training and security certification in the world. SANS Securing Awareness Training program provides a range of security and data protection training courses designed to educate employees on data protection and adhering to data protection standards and regulations.

Key Features:

• Role-based courses
• User testing
• Training requirements assessments
• Video courses

Why do we recommend it?

SANS Institute is one of the leading organizations in the world for cybersecurity threat intelligence and its Security Awareness Training programs add practical measures that companies can take to shut down the security weaknesses that come from user mistakes. This library of videos can be assembled into training courses for different business departments and roles.

The training modules are designed to elevate employees’ understanding of security, privacy, and data protection and handling best practices, and the consequences of data breaches. The modules are designed to be engaging and include real-world scenarios and interactive elements.

SANS Security Awareness can be a valuable resource for GDPR training by addressing the following key aspects of GDPR compliance:

• Data Privacy Awareness GDPR places a strong emphasis on protecting individuals’ personal data and ensuring that employees are aware of their roles in safeguarding this data. SANS Security Awareness programs typically include content that raises awareness about data privacy principles and the importance of securing personal data.
• Phishing and Social Engineering Awareness Phishing attacks are a common method for data breaches, and GDPR requires organizations to protect personal data from such breaches. SANS provides training modules that help employees recognize and respond to phishing attempts and other social engineering attacks. This is crucial for preventing data breaches.
• Compliance Training GDPR mandates that organizations ensure their employees understand the regulation and its implications. SANS Security Awareness programs can include GDPR-specific training content, quizzes, and assessments to test employees’ knowledge and assess compliance readiness.
• Secure Data Handling GDPR requires organizations to have clear procedures for handling personal data securely. SANS training materials can cover secure data handling practices, ensuring that employees understand how to process and protect personal data by the regulation.
• Reporting and Incident Response GDPR necessitates the reporting of data breaches. SANS programs can guide recognizing and reporting potential breaches promptly, helping organizations meet their GDPR reporting obligations.
• Customization SANS Security Awareness training materials can be customized to align with an organization’s specific GDPR compliance needs, ensuring that the training is tailored to address unique data protection challenges.
• Continuous Learning GDPR compliance is an ongoing process. SANS offers a variety of cybersecurity awareness content that can be continually updated to reflect changes in GDPR and evolving security threats, keeping employees informed and vigilant over time.

Who is it recommended for?

This platform is going to appeal more to larger organizations because it allows them to assemble training courses for technicians, finance managers, and data processing clerks. So, every role in the business can be catered to. Large companies that are used to bringing in consultancies to organize training will probably not be interested in this platform.

By infusing data protection awareness training into the organization’s DNA, the SANS Institute turns employees into advocates who recognize that GDPR data protection is not just a legal obligation but an ethical imperative.

3. IAPP Data Protection Training

IAPP stands for the International Association of Privacy Professionals. It is a well-known and respected organization that focuses on promoting and supporting professionals involved in data protection, privacy, and information security. The IAPP provides resources, education, certification, and networking opportunities for individuals and businesses that deal with data protection and privacy.

Key Features:

• Career Advancement
• Certification
• Company-wide plans

Why do we recommend it?

IAPP Data Protection Training offers a menu of courses that include certification options. The course list includes those specific to GDPR and can used to get an overview of the regulations or build up to a full and detailed grounding in the rules that will make the learner an expert in the field. Companies can use the Association to build corporate training programs.

Developed with leading privacy and data protection experts, IAPP training courses span legal, regulatory, governance, and operational issues. Through its comprehensive training resources, certification programs, and networking opportunities, the IAPP empowers individuals and organizations to navigate the complexities of data protection regulations effectively.

The IAPP offers a wide range of training resources designed to cater to professionals at various stages of their careers. From introductory courses to advanced certifications, the IAPP provides a structured learning path for anyone interested in GDPR compliance. One of the standout features of the IAPP is its certification programs. The Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP) is a globally recognized certification that focuses on data privacy laws and regulations, including GDPR. There are specialized CIPP certifications for Europe, ensuring that professionals receive in-depth knowledge specific to GDPR.

The IAPP provides a platform for privacy professionals to connect, share experiences, and learn from each other. This networking aspect is crucial, as it allows individuals to stay updated on the latest developments in data privacy and GDPR compliance. The IAPP’s membership includes privacy experts, lawyers, and practitioners who are at the forefront of GDPR compliance. Members can tap into this expertise, seek guidance, and get answers to their questions, making the learning process more dynamic and interactive.

Who is it recommended for?

Any business can use the resources of the IAPP to build expertise in GDPR. That might involve sponsoring one employee to become the company expert or creating low-level awareness training for all employees. Individuals can also access courses to improve their expertise and enhance their career prospects.

As the GDPR continues to evolve and influence global data privacy standards, the IAPP remains a vital resource for staying informed and compliant. For those committed to safeguarding personal data and upholding the principles of privacy, the IAPP is an indispensable ally on the journey to GDPR compliance.

4. Fortra Terranova Security

Terranova Security simplifies the process of creating risk-based campaigns that incorporate top-tier training content and practical data protection and GDPR training. Terranova Security’s approach revolves around equipping employees, third-party contractors, suppliers, partners, and other stakeholders with the necessary skills to make GDPR and other data protection regulations a default behavior.

Key Features:

• Courses in data privacy
• Virtual CISO service
• Specific GDPR training

Why do we recommend it?

Fortra Terranova Security provides general data management safety training and also specific training in GDPR requirements. So, there are a lot of options available from the Fortra platform. This company also offers a managed service program that allows businesses to outsource privacy management and it also has a consultancy arm to advise businesses on implementing GDPR.

Fortra Terranova Security offers customized GDPR training programs tailored to your specific needs. Its training covers all aspects of GDPR, ensuring that your employees have a holistic understanding of the regulation and its implications. Terranova Security’s training platform also helps foster a deep understanding of data privacy awareness in your workforce by providing quality training content and activities that explore key trends in data protection. The solution helps educate employees on how to better protect personal information and reinforce learning to maximize behavior change. This hands-on experience helps to instill a security awareness culture within your organization.

What sets Terranova Security apart is its commitment to delivering measurable results. Through in-depth analytics and reporting, organizations gain insight into the effectiveness of their training efforts. Personalized dashboards and pre-built widgets enable real-time monitoring of training progress and performance. This data-driven approach allows for the continuous refinement of the training program, ensuring that it remains aligned with the evolving cyber threat landscape.

Who is it recommended for?

There are a lot of service options on the Fortra platform and they will particularly appeal to large businesses and the large end of the mid-size market. This is because companies can get Fortra consultants to come in and advise on GDPR implementation with planning and delivery for suitable training courses.

Fortra Terranova Security’s expertise in GDPR training equips your organization with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complex regulatory landscape successfully. By choosing Fortra Terranova Security as your GDPR training partner, you invest in the future of your organization, ensuring that it remains compliant, secure, and trusted in the eyes of your customers and partners.

5. OneTrust Platform

OneTrust is a prominent technology platform that specializes in helping organizations manage various aspects of data protection, security, privacy, and data compliance. It offers a suite of tools and solutions designed to address the complex challenges posed by data protection and privacy regulations like GDPR, and the need for ethical data handling. A free 14-day trial and demo are available on request.

Key Features:

• Consent management
• GRC enforcement
• GDPR compliance

Why do we recommend it?

The OneTrust Platform excels at providing compliance management solutions. These include automated systems to inform users and get their consent and goes through to services to handle DSAR applications. The platform includes a knowledge base that provides training for the employees of companies implementing GDPR.

OneTrust can be a valuable resource for GDPR training by addressing key aspects of GDPR compliance such as privacy, governance, risk management, ethics, and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) concerns. This holistic approach ensures that organizations can proactively address these aspects in a synchronized manner, reducing silos and enhancing efficiency. OneTrust goes beyond providing training to offering tangible proof of data protection compliance through detailed reports on training history and performance. This supports internal audit efforts and also bolsters an organization’s ability to demonstrate its commitment to data protection and regulatory compliance with external stakeholders.

OneTrust’s platform’s key GDPR features and capabilities include:

• Compliance Management OneTrust aids organizations in adhering to various global privacy regulations, such as GDPR, and others.
• Privacy Management OneTrust assists organizations in managing their privacy programs by providing tools for data inventory and mapping, consent management, privacy impact assessments, and managing subject access requests.
• Data Governance The platform facilitates data governance by helping organizations establish policies, procedures, and controls for data management, classification, and retention.
• Vendor Risk Management Organizations can assess and manage the privacy and security risks posed by their third-party vendors and partners.
• Consent and Preference Management Organizations can use OneTrust to collect and manage user preferences and permissions for data collection and processing.
• Incident and Breach Management The platform provides tools to detect, respond to, and manage data breaches and incidents, ensuring compliance with reporting requirements.
• Ethics and Compliance OneTrust assists organizations in promoting ethical behavior and compliance by offering tools for training, policy management, and whistleblower reporting.

Who is it recommended for?

OneTrust doesn’t offer courses but the knowledgebase services that are built into all of One Trust’s products provide training from within each process implemented on the platform. The One Trust platform has a tailored service for GDPR compliance. The GDPR service can be combined with privacy management according to other regional standards, such as CCPA.

6. Skillsoft

Skillsoft is a leading eLearning company that provides modern data protection, privacy, and GDPR compliance training solutions. With a wealth of expertise and a diverse array of cybersecurity and data protection courses, Skillsoft equips businesses with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate the complex world of GDPR.

Key Features:

• Video courses
• Completion certificates
• Bespoke training courses available

Why do we recommend it?

Skillsoft is a training platform for security issues and programming skills. The company provides off-the-shelf interactive videos for GDPR training. The course catalog includes training for sales and marketing staff who are more likely to want to use personal information for targeted advertising.

Skillsoft’s training provides a clear overview of the data protection laws and industry standards such as GDPR that organizations are obligated to adhere to. This aspect ensures that employees are aware of the legal landscape and can make informed decisions to avoid breaches. The training underscores the vital role employees play in enforcing the company’s security and privacy policies and procedures. By highlighting the direct link between individual actions and overall data security, employees are motivated to become proactive contributors to the organization’s privacy posture.

Who is it recommended for?

Skillsoft has GDPR courses for all sizes of businesses. Their base GDPR training video lasts only 27 minutes, so you can see that it isn’t an in-depth guide on implementing the regulations. However, there are other in-depth courses available and you can hire a trainer to give your employees tailored, live seminars.

The platform also allows organizations to track the progress of employees and measure their understanding through assessments. This data-driven approach enables organizations to identify areas of improvement and take corrective actions. A free online demo is available on request.

7. Inspired eLearning GDPR Training

Inspired eLearning is a company that specializes in providing cybersecurity and data protection training solutions. Inspired eLearning Data Protection training teaches GDPR  and other data protection laws and how to apply key principles and concepts that help safeguard against common data threats and vulnerabilities. The Privacy Training solution offered by Inspired eLearning is designed to ensure employees are always up-to-date and compliant with the latest privacy regulations, including GDPR. This ensures that your organization can stay ahead of the curve, minimizing risks associated with non-compliance.

Key Features:

• Online platform
• Video guides
• GDPR overview

Why do we recommend it?

Inspired eLearning has a vast library of training videos and its GDP training course is an overview of the regulations. This isn’t a detailed training package but a single video. The unusual feature of this course is that it is slanted towards the US perspective, explaining when and how American businesses are liable to the regulations.

Whether your team handles medical, financial, or personal data, Inspired eLearning’s Data Protection training has got you covered. With offerings like “Key Principles of the GDPR,” your employees can access targeted training that is relevant to their roles. From IT professionals seeking to understand PCI requirements to data handlers grappling with the intricacies of GDPR compliance, the courses are designed to cater to diverse learning needs.

Who is it recommended for?

This option is a good choice for businesses that just need an orientation on GDPR and it is particularly interesting for US companies that might get caught up in GDPR because of their services to European customers. The course is online and can be taken at different times by employees – they don’t need to sit the course in one room together.

Inspired eLearning robust user support system ensures a seamless training experience for your employees. From turnkey implementation to a comprehensive “how to” video library, live chat, and phone support, their customer-centric approach guarantees that your team can confidently navigate the training process. A free trial is available on request.