Definition ∞ GDPR Data Protection refers to the legal framework established by the General Data Protection Regulation, a comprehensive data privacy law in the European Union. This regulation imposes strict rules on how personal data is collected, processed, stored, and protected. It grants individuals extensive rights over their data and mandates accountability for organizations handling such information. Compliance is crucial for entities operating within or targeting EU markets.
Context ∞ News in the cryptocurrency sector often discusses GDPR data protection in relation to decentralized applications (dApps), blockchain identity solutions, and the handling of user data by crypto exchanges. The pseudonymous nature of some blockchain transactions presents unique challenges for GDPR compliance, particularly concerning the right to erasure and data portability. Companies in the digital asset space must navigate these regulations to avoid substantial penalties and maintain user trust, impacting global operational strategies.