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Singapore Companies: Have You Appointed Your DPO Yet?

September 9, 2024
Jamie Pierre
5 minutes

In today’s digital world, protecting personal data is more critical than ever as data security risks continue to rise globally. Singapore has responded to this by reminding companies of their obligations to the Personal Data Protection Act 2012 (PDPA).  

All Singaporean companies must appoint a Data Protection Officer (DPO) and make their contact information available in ACRA via the BizFile+ portal. The deadline to comply is 30 September 2024.  

Use this helpful guide to protect your business and ensure compliance with the latest data protection laws.

What Does a Data Protection Officer (DPO) Do? 

The role of the DPO is crucial for ensuring data protection within your organisation. Their key responsibilities include:   

  • Ensuring PDPA compliance
  • Fostering a data protection culture within the organisation 
  • Handling data inquiries efficiently 
  • Alerting management of personal data risks 
  • Liaising with the Personal Data Protection Commission (PDPC) as needed   

Organisations can appoint a DPO as a dedicated role or add the responsibility to an existing position. The company can delegate some tasks but remains fully responsible for PDPA compliance.

Outsourcing the DPO Role: A Smart Solution for Your Business 

For many businesses, hiring and training your own DPO can be costly, inefficient and time-consuming. That’s where Doerscircle comes in. We’ve partnered with HeySara, a leading corporate services provider, to offer an easy and affordable solution to help you stay compliant.

How We Can Help:

  • Register a qualified DPO in ACRA 
  • Meet PDPA 11 obligations through a virtual learning and assessment call 
  • Create custom data privacy notices for: 

              - Clients and customers 

               - Employees 

              - Job applicants 

  • 1-hour online Data Protection Consultation or on-site audit (Accelerate Package only) 
  • Set up a Data Inventory Map (Accelerate Package only)

Don’t wait – secure your business now with a Starter or Accelerate Package! Click here for more information.  

Stay Compliant and Protect Your Business 

Don’t wait until the last minute. Let us help you meet your PDPA requirements with minimal hassle. Ensure your business is protected and avoid the risk of penalties, which can reach up to $1,000,000or 10% of your organisation’s annual turnover (if your annual turnover exceeds $10,000,000) – whichever is higher.  

To help you feel comfortable with this new initiative, you can find some frequently asked questions and answers below. Feel free to contact us if you have a specific question and we’ll do our best to respond promptly.

FAQ

What does PDPC define as an organisation?

An organisation refers to any company, association, or group of people, whether corporate or unincorporated, that is formed or recognized under Singapore law. This includes sole proprietorships and residents with an office or place of business in Singapore.

Where can I find the legal reference for the DPO requirement?

The Accountability Obligation in Section 11(3) of the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) requires organisations to designate one or more individuals responsible for ensuring compliance with the PDPA.

Who should our organisation appoint as a DPO?

According to the PDPC, an ideal Data Protection Officer (DPO) should:   

            •          Be a member of senior management or report directly to senior management 

            •          Have the necessary skills, knowledge, and authority to implement data protection policies and practices within the organisation   

Through the Doerscircle Platform, you can get help to comply with these requirements here .

What is the penalty for not registering a DPO by the deadline?

The PDPC has stated there is no immediate penalty for missing the deadline, but it strongly encourages organisations to register their DPO via BizFile+ as soon as possible. Failure to show compliance with PDPA requirements may result in enforcement actions. 

Is it mandatory for companies without employees or customers to register?

Yes, organisations are responsible for all personal data in their possession or control. This includes not only customer or employee data but also personal data related to shareholders or other individuals.

What is a Data Privacy Notice/Policy?

The PDPA requires organisations to create and implement policies to ensure compliance with their obligations. This includes making these policies publicly available. A Data Protection Policy (also known as a Privacy Policy) should outline how the organisation handles personal data and should be accessible, such as on the organisation’s website. 

How can I get more information?

The PDPC provides a range of advisory guidelines and public consultations, which you can find on their website: PDPC Guidelines.

How can I learn about data protection in Singapore?

You can learn the fundamentals of the PDPA through approved educational providers. The Practitioner Certificate in Personal Data Protection (Singapore) 2020 (WSQ) is a 3-day preparatory course designed to equip DPOs with practical knowledge in data protection and governance. For more details, visit: Practitioner Certificate Course. 

Can I get financial support for the 3-day course?

SSG Funding is available for this course. For information on SSG funding, please visit the SSG Website.

Startups
5 minutes

Singapore Companies: Have You Appointed Your DPO Yet?

The deadline for PDPA compliance is fast approaching—are you ready?
Published on
September 9, 2024

In today’s digital world, protecting personal data is more critical than ever as data security risks continue to rise globally. Singapore has responded to this by reminding companies of their obligations to the Personal Data Protection Act 2012 (PDPA).  

All Singaporean companies must appoint a Data Protection Officer (DPO) and make their contact information available in ACRA via the BizFile+ portal. The deadline to comply is 30 September 2024.  

Use this helpful guide to protect your business and ensure compliance with the latest data protection laws.

What Does a Data Protection Officer (DPO) Do? 

The role of the DPO is crucial for ensuring data protection within your organisation. Their key responsibilities include:   

  • Ensuring PDPA compliance
  • Fostering a data protection culture within the organisation 
  • Handling data inquiries efficiently 
  • Alerting management of personal data risks 
  • Liaising with the Personal Data Protection Commission (PDPC) as needed   

Organisations can appoint a DPO as a dedicated role or add the responsibility to an existing position. The company can delegate some tasks but remains fully responsible for PDPA compliance.

Outsourcing the DPO Role: A Smart Solution for Your Business 

For many businesses, hiring and training your own DPO can be costly, inefficient and time-consuming. That’s where Doerscircle comes in. We’ve partnered with HeySara, a leading corporate services provider, to offer an easy and affordable solution to help you stay compliant.

How We Can Help:

  • Register a qualified DPO in ACRA 
  • Meet PDPA 11 obligations through a virtual learning and assessment call 
  • Create custom data privacy notices for: 

              - Clients and customers 

               - Employees 

              - Job applicants 

  • 1-hour online Data Protection Consultation or on-site audit (Accelerate Package only) 
  • Set up a Data Inventory Map (Accelerate Package only)

Don’t wait – secure your business now with a Starter or Accelerate Package! Click here for more information.  

Stay Compliant and Protect Your Business 

Don’t wait until the last minute. Let us help you meet your PDPA requirements with minimal hassle. Ensure your business is protected and avoid the risk of penalties, which can reach up to $1,000,000or 10% of your organisation’s annual turnover (if your annual turnover exceeds $10,000,000) – whichever is higher.  

To help you feel comfortable with this new initiative, you can find some frequently asked questions and answers below. Feel free to contact us if you have a specific question and we’ll do our best to respond promptly.

FAQ

What does PDPC define as an organisation?

An organisation refers to any company, association, or group of people, whether corporate or unincorporated, that is formed or recognized under Singapore law. This includes sole proprietorships and residents with an office or place of business in Singapore.

Where can I find the legal reference for the DPO requirement?

The Accountability Obligation in Section 11(3) of the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) requires organisations to designate one or more individuals responsible for ensuring compliance with the PDPA.

Who should our organisation appoint as a DPO?

According to the PDPC, an ideal Data Protection Officer (DPO) should:   

            •          Be a member of senior management or report directly to senior management 

            •          Have the necessary skills, knowledge, and authority to implement data protection policies and practices within the organisation   

Through the Doerscircle Platform, you can get help to comply with these requirements here .

What is the penalty for not registering a DPO by the deadline?

The PDPC has stated there is no immediate penalty for missing the deadline, but it strongly encourages organisations to register their DPO via BizFile+ as soon as possible. Failure to show compliance with PDPA requirements may result in enforcement actions. 

Is it mandatory for companies without employees or customers to register?

Yes, organisations are responsible for all personal data in their possession or control. This includes not only customer or employee data but also personal data related to shareholders or other individuals.

What is a Data Privacy Notice/Policy?

The PDPA requires organisations to create and implement policies to ensure compliance with their obligations. This includes making these policies publicly available. A Data Protection Policy (also known as a Privacy Policy) should outline how the organisation handles personal data and should be accessible, such as on the organisation’s website. 

How can I get more information?

The PDPC provides a range of advisory guidelines and public consultations, which you can find on their website: PDPC Guidelines.

How can I learn about data protection in Singapore?

You can learn the fundamentals of the PDPA through approved educational providers. The Practitioner Certificate in Personal Data Protection (Singapore) 2020 (WSQ) is a 3-day preparatory course designed to equip DPOs with practical knowledge in data protection and governance. For more details, visit: Practitioner Certificate Course. 

Can I get financial support for the 3-day course?

SSG Funding is available for this course. For information on SSG funding, please visit the SSG Website.

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Digital Marketeer
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In today’s digital world, protecting personal data is more critical than ever as data security risks continue to rise globally. Singapore has responded to this by reminding companies of their obligations to the Personal Data Protection Act 2012 (PDPA).  

All Singaporean companies must appoint a Data Protection Officer (DPO) and make their contact information available in ACRA via the BizFile+ portal. The deadline to comply is 30 September 2024.  

Use this helpful guide to protect your business and ensure compliance with the latest data protection laws.

What Does a Data Protection Officer (DPO) Do? 

The role of the DPO is crucial for ensuring data protection within your organisation. Their key responsibilities include:   

  • Ensuring PDPA compliance
  • Fostering a data protection culture within the organisation 
  • Handling data inquiries efficiently 
  • Alerting management of personal data risks 
  • Liaising with the Personal Data Protection Commission (PDPC) as needed   

Organisations can appoint a DPO as a dedicated role or add the responsibility to an existing position. The company can delegate some tasks but remains fully responsible for PDPA compliance.

Outsourcing the DPO Role: A Smart Solution for Your Business 

For many businesses, hiring and training your own DPO can be costly, inefficient and time-consuming. That’s where Doerscircle comes in. We’ve partnered with HeySara, a leading corporate services provider, to offer an easy and affordable solution to help you stay compliant.

How We Can Help:

  • Register a qualified DPO in ACRA 
  • Meet PDPA 11 obligations through a virtual learning and assessment call 
  • Create custom data privacy notices for: 

              - Clients and customers 

               - Employees 

              - Job applicants 

  • 1-hour online Data Protection Consultation or on-site audit (Accelerate Package only) 
  • Set up a Data Inventory Map (Accelerate Package only)

Don’t wait – secure your business now with a Starter or Accelerate Package! Click here for more information.  

Stay Compliant and Protect Your Business 

Don’t wait until the last minute. Let us help you meet your PDPA requirements with minimal hassle. Ensure your business is protected and avoid the risk of penalties, which can reach up to $1,000,000or 10% of your organisation’s annual turnover (if your annual turnover exceeds $10,000,000) – whichever is higher.  

To help you feel comfortable with this new initiative, you can find some frequently asked questions and answers below. Feel free to contact us if you have a specific question and we’ll do our best to respond promptly.

FAQ

What does PDPC define as an organisation?

An organisation refers to any company, association, or group of people, whether corporate or unincorporated, that is formed or recognized under Singapore law. This includes sole proprietorships and residents with an office or place of business in Singapore.

Where can I find the legal reference for the DPO requirement?

The Accountability Obligation in Section 11(3) of the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) requires organisations to designate one or more individuals responsible for ensuring compliance with the PDPA.

Who should our organisation appoint as a DPO?

According to the PDPC, an ideal Data Protection Officer (DPO) should:   

            •          Be a member of senior management or report directly to senior management 

            •          Have the necessary skills, knowledge, and authority to implement data protection policies and practices within the organisation   

Through the Doerscircle Platform, you can get help to comply with these requirements here .

What is the penalty for not registering a DPO by the deadline?

The PDPC has stated there is no immediate penalty for missing the deadline, but it strongly encourages organisations to register their DPO via BizFile+ as soon as possible. Failure to show compliance with PDPA requirements may result in enforcement actions. 

Is it mandatory for companies without employees or customers to register?

Yes, organisations are responsible for all personal data in their possession or control. This includes not only customer or employee data but also personal data related to shareholders or other individuals.

What is a Data Privacy Notice/Policy?

The PDPA requires organisations to create and implement policies to ensure compliance with their obligations. This includes making these policies publicly available. A Data Protection Policy (also known as a Privacy Policy) should outline how the organisation handles personal data and should be accessible, such as on the organisation’s website. 

How can I get more information?

The PDPC provides a range of advisory guidelines and public consultations, which you can find on their website: PDPC Guidelines.

How can I learn about data protection in Singapore?

You can learn the fundamentals of the PDPA through approved educational providers. The Practitioner Certificate in Personal Data Protection (Singapore) 2020 (WSQ) is a 3-day preparatory course designed to equip DPOs with practical knowledge in data protection and governance. For more details, visit: Practitioner Certificate Course. 

Can I get financial support for the 3-day course?

SSG Funding is available for this course. For information on SSG funding, please visit the SSG Website.

In today’s digital world, protecting personal data is more critical than ever as data security risks continue to rise globally. Singapore has responded to this by reminding companies of their obligations to the Personal Data Protection Act 2012 (PDPA).  

All Singaporean companies must appoint a Data Protection Officer (DPO) and make their contact information available in ACRA via the BizFile+ portal. The deadline to comply is 30 September 2024.  

Use this helpful guide to protect your business and ensure compliance with the latest data protection laws.

What Does a Data Protection Officer (DPO) Do? 

The role of the DPO is crucial for ensuring data protection within your organisation. Their key responsibilities include:   

  • Ensuring PDPA compliance
  • Fostering a data protection culture within the organisation 
  • Handling data inquiries efficiently 
  • Alerting management of personal data risks 
  • Liaising with the Personal Data Protection Commission (PDPC) as needed   

Organisations can appoint a DPO as a dedicated role or add the responsibility to an existing position. The company can delegate some tasks but remains fully responsible for PDPA compliance.

Outsourcing the DPO Role: A Smart Solution for Your Business 

For many businesses, hiring and training your own DPO can be costly, inefficient and time-consuming. That’s where Doerscircle comes in. We’ve partnered with HeySara, a leading corporate services provider, to offer an easy and affordable solution to help you stay compliant.

How We Can Help:

  • Register a qualified DPO in ACRA 
  • Meet PDPA 11 obligations through a virtual learning and assessment call 
  • Create custom data privacy notices for: 

              - Clients and customers 

               - Employees 

              - Job applicants 

  • 1-hour online Data Protection Consultation or on-site audit (Accelerate Package only) 
  • Set up a Data Inventory Map (Accelerate Package only)

Don’t wait – secure your business now with a Starter or Accelerate Package! Click here for more information.  

Stay Compliant and Protect Your Business 

Don’t wait until the last minute. Let us help you meet your PDPA requirements with minimal hassle. Ensure your business is protected and avoid the risk of penalties, which can reach up to $1,000,000or 10% of your organisation’s annual turnover (if your annual turnover exceeds $10,000,000) – whichever is higher.  

To help you feel comfortable with this new initiative, you can find some frequently asked questions and answers below. Feel free to contact us if you have a specific question and we’ll do our best to respond promptly.

FAQ

What does PDPC define as an organisation?

An organisation refers to any company, association, or group of people, whether corporate or unincorporated, that is formed or recognized under Singapore law. This includes sole proprietorships and residents with an office or place of business in Singapore.

Where can I find the legal reference for the DPO requirement?

The Accountability Obligation in Section 11(3) of the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) requires organisations to designate one or more individuals responsible for ensuring compliance with the PDPA.

Who should our organisation appoint as a DPO?

According to the PDPC, an ideal Data Protection Officer (DPO) should:   

            •          Be a member of senior management or report directly to senior management 

            •          Have the necessary skills, knowledge, and authority to implement data protection policies and practices within the organisation   

Through the Doerscircle Platform, you can get help to comply with these requirements here .

What is the penalty for not registering a DPO by the deadline?

The PDPC has stated there is no immediate penalty for missing the deadline, but it strongly encourages organisations to register their DPO via BizFile+ as soon as possible. Failure to show compliance with PDPA requirements may result in enforcement actions. 

Is it mandatory for companies without employees or customers to register?

Yes, organisations are responsible for all personal data in their possession or control. This includes not only customer or employee data but also personal data related to shareholders or other individuals.

What is a Data Privacy Notice/Policy?

The PDPA requires organisations to create and implement policies to ensure compliance with their obligations. This includes making these policies publicly available. A Data Protection Policy (also known as a Privacy Policy) should outline how the organisation handles personal data and should be accessible, such as on the organisation’s website. 

How can I get more information?

The PDPC provides a range of advisory guidelines and public consultations, which you can find on their website: PDPC Guidelines.

How can I learn about data protection in Singapore?

You can learn the fundamentals of the PDPA through approved educational providers. The Practitioner Certificate in Personal Data Protection (Singapore) 2020 (WSQ) is a 3-day preparatory course designed to equip DPOs with practical knowledge in data protection and governance. For more details, visit: Practitioner Certificate Course. 

Can I get financial support for the 3-day course?

SSG Funding is available for this course. For information on SSG funding, please visit the SSG Website.

Unlock a wealth of exclusive content

Join us and get unlimited access to a wealth of subscriber-only articles that cover a diverse range of topics, from industry trends and insights to expert tips and advice.

Sign up now and gain access!
Once subscribed, you're also unlocking these benefits!
Leverage 18,000+ entrepreneurs for support and advice
Save time and effort with over 50 solutions for your business
Spotlight your business by getting featured on our platform
Contributors
Jamie Pierre
Digital Marketeer
Subscribe to our newsletter
No spam. Just the latest news and tips, interesting articles, and exclusive interviews in your inbox every month.
Read about our privacy policy.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
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