Data portability: take your data with you to the next provider

The right to data portability allows you to receive the data you provided to a provider in a common, machine-readable format, in order to take it to another service. This is especially practical when switching providers.

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You have the right to receive the data you provided in a structured, common, and machine-readable format and to transmit it to another provider (Art. 20 DSGVO), insofar as the processing is based on consent or a contract and is carried out automatically.

Unlike the simple right of access (Art. 15), data portability aims at a reusable copy of the data. On direct request, the provider must, insofar as technically feasible, even transmit the data directly to the new service.

What you should do now

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1. Request a copy of the data
Request the data you provided in a machine-readable format (e.g. CSV, JSON).
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2. Clarify the scope
Covered are above all the data you actively provided and generated through use. Mere inferences by the provider usually do not fall under this.
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3. Check direct transmission
If you wish, you can demand that the data be transmitted, insofar as technically possible, directly to the new provider.
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4. Note the deadline
The one-month deadline applies here too. In case of inaction, you can follow up and turn to the data protection authority.

How to spot the scam

The provider releases the data only in an unusable format (e.g. an unstructured PDF).
A fee is demanded for the first copy.
Taking the data along is blocked without reason during the switch.

Frequently asked questions

What is the right to data portability?

The right to receive the data you provided in a structured, common, and machine-readable format and take it to another provider (Art. 20 DSGVO). It applies if the processing is based on consent or a contract and is carried out automatically.

What is the difference from the right of access?

The right of access (Art. 15) informs you which data is processed. Data portability (Art. 20) aims at a reusable copy of your data in a machine-readable format, ideal for switching providers.

Can I have the data sent directly to the new provider?

Yes, on request and insofar as technically feasible, the previous provider must transmit the data directly to the new one. This makes switching easier, without you having to copy the data back and forth yourself.

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.