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CRM, Data Privacy: how to manage data?

Gustavo Goncalves
Gustavo Goncalves

Apr 22, 2025

CRM, Data Privacy: how to manage data?
15:53

Managing data privacy in today's digital world can seem like a complicated task, especially with so many regulations at stake.

If you've ever found yourself confused about how to integrate an effective CRM, protect data privacy and still comply with the GDPR, LGPD or CCPA, don't worry, you're not alone.

Today, we're going to demystify these concepts and show you how you can keep your data organized without losing any sleep.

What you'll see in this post:

Understand the new data privacy regulations;

CCPA, GDPR and LGPD: Understand the differences;

Some of the data privacy principles you need to know;

Check out how a CRM can help you comply with the new laws;

Some of the best practices that can be applied with a CRM;

The importance and benefits of compliance.

Happy reading!

What is GDPR, LGPD or CCPA?

Have you ever heard of GDPR, LGPD or CCPA? These terms are increasingly present in our daily lives, especially when it comes to protecting personal data.

But what is the main purpose of GDPR, LGPD and the CCPA? Shall we understand a little more about them?

GDPR: Definition and objectives of the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation

The GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) is the European Union regulation aimed at protecting the personal data of European citizens.

Implemented in May 2018, its main objective is to ensure that people have more control over their personal information and to ensure that this information is collected and processed in a transparent and secure manner.

Companies that do not comply with GDPR can face very heavy fines.

LGPD: Definition and objectives of Brazil's General Data Protection Law

The LGPD (General Data Protection Law) is the Brazilian version of the GDPR. It came into force in September 2020 and aims to protect Brazilians' personal data by establishing clear rules on how this information should be collected, stored and shared.

Like the GDPR, the LGPD aims to give individuals more control over their own data and ensure that companies adopt safe and transparent practices.

What is the CCPA?

Although the LGPD (General Data Protection Act) and the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation of the European Union) are the most well-known and discussed regulatory frameworks in Brazil, it is important that educational institutions and companies with international operations are also aware of the CCPA (California Consumer Privacy Act).

This is California's privacy legislation, in force since January 2020, which establishes strict rules on how companies collect, use and share the personal data of Californian consumers.

The CCPA stands out for giving California citizens the right to know what data is being collected, why it is being used and with whom it is being shared. In addition, consumers have the right to request the deletion of their information and to prevent their data from being sold to third parties.

Companies that don't comply with these requirements can be penalized, which reinforces the need to adapt, especially for businesses with a digital presence and lead capture in the United States.

See also:

Now that you've understood what each of these laws stands for individually, it's important to analyze how they compare. Despite their differences, they all have in common the aim of protecting personal data and ensuring greater transparency in the relationship between companies and consumers.

CCPA, GDPR and LGPD: similarities and differences

Although they share common principles - such as respect for privacy, transparency and user control over their own data - the CCPA differs from the GDPR and LGPD in some important respects. For example, the CCPA allows data to be collected on the basis of legitimate interest, while the GDPR and LGPD prioritize the explicit consent of the data subject.

In addition, the CCPA is more flexible regarding the obligation to appoint a DPO and has a special focus on the sale of personal data - a sensitive point in the US context.

This legislative diversity requires companies to adopt a globalized and adaptable approach to their privacy policies, especially when using tools such as CRM. Systems that store and process customer information need to be prepared to respect the legal particularities of each region, offering clear mechanisms for deleting data, opting out of communications and transparent access to personal information.

Basic data privacy principles you need to know

In an increasingly digital world, it is essential that we understand how our information is handled and protected.

Here are some basic principles in Brazil that guide data privacy and help ensure the security of your information:

  • Transparency: It is essential that you know exactly what data is being collected and how it will be used. Imagine you're in a conversation with a friend - it's natural to want to know why they're asking certain questions, right?

In the same way, companies should be clear and open about what they are collecting and why, ensuring that you are always well informed.

  • Consent: You have the right to decide what happens to your information, so companies need to get your explicit permission before collecting and processing your data.

It's like a friend asking for your approval before sharing a story about you - it's a sign of respect and consideration.

  • Data minimization: Less is more. Companies should only collect data that is essential to fulfill the specific purpose they have told you about.

Think of it like asking for only the necessary ingredients for a recipe, avoiding waste and excess.

  • Security: Protecting your information is a priority. Companies must implement robust measures to prevent unauthorized access and breaches.

Imagine a secure vault where your most precious secrets are kept - that's how your information should be treated.

  • Purpose: processing must be carried out for legitimate, specific, explicit purposes which are informed to the data subject, without allowing further processing to take place in a manner incompatible with those purposes.

Understanding these principles is an important step towards guaranteeing the privacy and security of your customers' data online.

Another very important factor is the legitimate interest of data in Brazil. This is the legal basis that allows the processing of personal data for legitimate purposes, as long as it does not harm the fundamental rights and freedoms of the data subject.

Always remember: this data is valuable and deserves to be protected with the utmost care!

How can CRM help with GDPR, LGPD or CCPA compliance?

One of the biggest benefits of a CRM is the centralization of information. With all customer data stored in one place, it's easier to ensure that the information is secure and up-to-date.

This not only improves the efficiency of data management, but also makes it easier to implement security and compliance measures.

In addition, modern CRMs have tools to track and manage customer consents in an automated way.

You can record when and how consents were obtained, and update or revoke these consents as necessary.

In this way, you have a clear and auditable history, which is essential for compliance with the GDPR, CCPA and LGPD.

When it comes to protecting sensitive data, CRMs allow you to configure different levels of access.

Only authorized personnel can view or edit sensitive information, minimizing the risk of unauthorized access. This additional layer of security is crucial for protecting the privacy of customer data.

Finally, an efficient CRM can help implement anonymization and pseudonymization techniques for stored data.

These practices are essential for protecting privacy, making data unrecognizable or less identifiable without additional information, increasing not only security but also demonstrating a commitment to protecting personal data.

This way, you can focus on what really matters: building long-lasting, trusting relationships with your customers.

Best practices for managing data with CRM

Here are some important practices that can help your company manage customer data responsibly and efficiently:

  • Regular audits

Carrying out regular audits is an excellent way to ensure that customer data is being managed in accordance with regulations.

These checks help identify possible flaws and correct any deviations from privacy and security policies.

Audits also allow the company to keep up to date with changes in laws and regulations, avoiding fines and reputational damage.

  • Team awareness

Investing in regular training for staff is crucial. All employees who handle customer data should be aware of the best privacy practices and the correct use of CRM (Customer Relationship Management).

Ongoing training helps ensure that everyone understands the importance of protecting customer data and knows how to act in risky situations.

  • Data retention policies

Defining and following clear policies on data retention is fundamental, as these policies determine how long customer data can be stored before it is properly disposed of.

It is important to balance the need to keep useful information for the company with the obligation to protect customer privacy.

In this context, having a well-defined retention policy not only complies with legal requirements, but also demonstrates the company's commitment to data security.

By following these good practices, your company can create an environment of trust and security for both customers and employees.

After all, taking good care of customer data is a way of showing that we value and respect each and every one of them.

Illustration with visual elements representing the integration between CRM and data privacy.Caption: Data Protection in the Use of CRM.

Benefits of complying with the new laws

Now that we have a good understanding of the General Data Protection Act, we know that complying with its regulations is not just a legal obligation, but also an opportunity to strengthen your relationship with your customers and optimize data management in your organization.

Imagine the sense of security your customers feel knowing that their personal information is protected.

Complying with privacy laws reinforces your company's commitment to security and transparency.

In turn, this increases the trust of your customers, who feel more comfortable sharing information and interacting with your brand, knowing that their data is in safe hands.

In addition to complying with the law, following good data management practices significantly improves the efficiency and accuracy of the information your company stores.

Implementing an effective CRM system, in line with legal requirements, not only organizes data better, but also facilitates strategic decision-making and the personalization of customer service.

Including the CCPA in discussions about data privacy is essential for companies that use CRM tools with an international reach. As well as worrying about how data is collected, stored and used, it is necessary to ensure that the CRM offers functionalities that comply with the rights provided for in legislation such as the CCPA.

In practice, this means making it possible for the user to see what data has been collected, making it easy to request the deletion or modification of this information and setting up flows that respect the consumer's decision not to have their data sold or shared with third parties. As well as reducing legal risks, this attitude strengthens the company's reputation, promotes more transparent relationships and reinforces public trust in your brand.

This results in smoother operations and an improved customer experience.

Summary: Complying with the GDPR, LGPD and CCPA means protecting personal data based on transparency, consent and security. These laws, although with regional differences, require companies to collect, store and process data responsibly. A modern CRM helps this process by centralizing information, automating consent control, limiting access and applying techniques such as anonymization. Adopting good practices with CRM not only guarantees legal compliance, but also strengthens customer trust and improves relationship management.

Now is the perfect time to learn more about data privacy and how compliance can benefit your organization.

Invest in training, consult experts and implement compliance practices that not only protect data, but above all value your customers' trust.

Take the opportunity to learn more about the new regulations and increase the security and trust of your customers, as they are the foundation of your business success!

Learn more about the new privacy and data regulations

How can you keep your CRM compliant with the LGPD, GDPR and CCPA?

What is the GDPR and how does it apply to the use of a CRM?

The LGPD (General Data Protection Act) establishes rules on the collection, use and storage of personal data in Brazil. A compliant CRM must allow for the control of consents, secure access to data and the possibility of deleting or anonymizing information, as requested by the data subject.

What are the main differences between LGPD, GDPR and CCPA?

GDPR (Europe) and LGPD (Brazil) require explicit consent and the appointment of a DPO. The CCPA (California, USA), on the other hand, is more flexible in terms of consent and emphasizes the consumer's right to prevent the sale of their data. All require transparency and protection of personal information.

How can a CRM help a company comply with data protection laws?

A good CRM centralizes customer data, automates consent control, limits access to sensitive data and records actions taken. It also makes it possible to apply techniques such as anonymization and pseudonymization, strengthening information security.

What good practices should be adopted to protect customer data in CRM?

It is essential to carry out regular audits, train staff on privacy and security, apply clear data retention policies and ensure that platforms are up-to-date and integrated to prevent leaks and breaches.

What is legitimate interest and how does it relate to data processing?

Legitimate interest is a legal basis that allows the use of personal data without consent, as long as it does not harm the rights of the data subject. Even so, the use must be transparent, proportionate and documented, especially when used within tools such as CRM.

What are the benefits of complying with the GDPR, LGPD and CCPA?

As well as avoiding fines, compliance strengthens the company's reputation, increases customer confidence and improves data management. With a CRM adapted to the law, it is possible to personalize service, make more strategic decisions and guarantee safer experiences.

How to apply data anonymization in CRM?

CRM must make it possible to hide or replace identifiable data with unrecognizable values, making it impossible to identify the data subject without additional information. This is useful for data analysis and testing, while keeping customer privacy intact.

Do Brazilian companies need to follow the CCPA?

Yes, if they capture leads or operate with consumer data from California. The CCPA requires these companies to guarantee rights such as access to data, deletion and the option not to sell the information, which requires a CRM adapted to these requirements.

Learn more about the new privacy and data regulations

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