What must a data processor do in case of a data breach?

In the event of a data breach, a data processor has specific responsibilities, particularly in relation to the data controller. The key obligation is to notify the data controller as soon as the data processor becomes aware of the breach. This is crucial because the data controller holds the primary responsibility for compliance with data protection regulations and will need to take appropriate actions to assess the impact of the breach and determine the next steps, including whether to notify relevant authorities or affected individuals.

While there are circumstances under which notifying supervisory authorities or affected data subjects may be necessary, the initial and immediate responsibility lies with the data processor to inform the data controller, allowing them to manage their compliance responses accordingly. Notifying Parliament is not a standard requirement in the context of data breaches, further underscoring the importance of the relationship between the processor and controller.