Privacy Impact Assessment Template - Free Download & Example
Download our free Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA/DPIA) template. Includes data inventory, risk assessment, GDPR compliance checks and safeguards. Achieve GDPR compliance.
A Data Protection Impact Assessment (DPIA) is legally required under GDPR when data processing poses a high risk to the privacy of data subjects. This template guides you step by step through the DPIA process: from inventorying personal data and processing purposes to assessing risks and documenting technical and organisational measures. It includes sections for processing records, lawfulness assessment, necessity and proportionality test, risk assessment matrix and an action plan for residual risks. This way you demonstrably comply with GDPR and protect the privacy of your users.
Variations
Standard DPIA (GDPR Art. 35)
Full DPIA template compliant with GDPR Article 35 covering all mandatory elements as prescribed by data protection authorities.
Best for: Suited for organisations that need to conduct a formal DPIA for new processing activities or systems handling personal data.
Quick Privacy Scan
Concise pre-screening to determine whether a full DPIA is necessary, with a checklist of high-risk criteria.
Best for: Ideal as a first step for new projects to quickly assess whether a comprehensive DPIA is required before investing further.
Software Development DPIA
DPIA variant specifically for software development covering privacy by design, data minimisation, encryption and access control.
Best for: Perfect for development teams that want to integrate privacy considerations into the software development process from the design phase.
How to use
Step 1: Download the Privacy Impact Assessment template and use the quick scan to determine whether a full DPIA is necessary. Step 2: Describe the data processing: which personal data is collected, from whom, for what purpose and on what legal basis. Step 3: Map all data flows: where does data enter, where is it stored, who has access and is it shared with third parties? Step 4: Perform the necessity and proportionality test: is the processing necessary for the purpose and do the risks stand in proportion to the benefits? Step 5: Assess privacy risks using the risk assessment matrix: likelihood x impact for each identified risk. Step 6: Define technical measures (encryption, pseudonymisation, access control) and organisational measures (policies, training, data processing agreements). Step 7: Document residual risks and determine whether they are acceptable or whether additional measures are needed. Step 8: Record the DPIA as part of your processing register and schedule an annual review.
Frequently asked questions
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