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1/30/14

A new Data Protection Compact for Europe: don't be naked online!

Data protection in the European Union is a fundamental right. Europe already has the highest level of data protection in the world. However, nine out of ten Europeans (92%) say they are concerned about mobile apps collecting their data without their consent. Seven Europeans out of ten are concerned about the potential use that companies may make of the information disclosed.

The new rules will put citizens back in control of their data, notably through:
• A right to be forgotten: decide when your data is really deleted.
• Easier access to your own data: A right to data portability will make it easier for you to transfer your personal data between service providers.
• Allowing you to decide how your data is used: When your consent is required to process your data, you must be asked to give it explicitly.
• The right to know when your data has been hacked: for example, companies and organisations must notify the national supervisory authority of serious data breaches as soon as possible (if feasible within 24 hours) so that users can take appropriate measures.

• Data protection first, not an afterthought: ‘Privacy by design’ and ‘privacy by default’ will also become essential principles in EU data protection rules.

The European Commission's data protection reform will help the digital single market and businesses realise this potential, notably through four main innovations:
• One continent, one law: The Regulation will establish a single, pan-European law for data protection, replacing the current inconsistent patchwork of national laws.
• One-stop-shop: The Regulation will establish a 'one-stop-shop' for businesses: companies will only have to deal with one single supervisory authority, not 28.
• The same rules for all companies – regardless of their establishment: Today European companies have to adhere to stricter standards than companies established outside the EU but also doing business on our Single Market.
  European regulators will be equipped with strong enforcement powers: data protection authorities will be able to fine companies who do not comply with EU rules with up to 2% of their global annual turnover.

"A message to our American friends. Data Protection rules should apply irrespective of the nationality of the person concerned. Applying different standards to nationals and non-nationals makes no sense in view of the open nature of the internet." - Vice-President Viviane Reding, EU Justice Commissioner.

More in the press pack.

1/20/14

A new €10 banknote is launched!

The note has a refreshed design and some enhanced security features. It will start circulating in the euro area on 23 September 2014.

The ECB (European Central Bank) and the national central banks (NCBs) of the Eurosystem are responsible for the integrity of euro banknotes. So they have developed a second series of euro banknotes with enhanced security features which will help to make the banknotes even more secure and maintain public confidence in the currency.

The trailer is available on the ECB website: 13/01/2014 Illuminating the Europa series: unveiling the new €10