Software Company Doesn't Have to Provide Free User with Screenshots Under GDPR

By Netvora Tech News

---

A software company that offers screenshot-making software does not have to provide free users with access to their screenshots under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), according to a ruling by the Belgian privacy watchdog's dispute settlement committee. The company offers both a free and a paid subscription. While paid subscribers can download their screenshots, free users can only view theirs on the company's website. A free user requested access to their screenshots under the GDPR, citing the right of access and the right to portability. The company refused, as this feature is only available to paying customers. The free user then filed a complaint with the Belgian Data Protection Authority (GBA), alleging that the company was violating their GDPR rights. However, the dispute settlement committee ruled in favor of the company, finding that the user was attempting to misuse the right of access to gain an unjustified economic benefit, namely access to a feature that is normally only available to paying customers. The committee concluded that the user's request was not justified, as they already had access to their data through the company's website. Moreover, the committee found that the user did not indicate that they intended to transfer their data to another party. The GBA considers this a case of misusing the right of access. The ruling highlights the importance of understanding the intent behind GDPR requests and ensuring that they are not used to gain an unfair advantage.