Cameroon's new data protection law

Data Protection Law Cameroon: Challenges, Opportunities and Sanctions

The recent adoption of a law on the personal data protection in Cameroon marks a crucial step for digital governance. This regulation imposes clear obligations on companies and public institutions with regard to the collection, processing and storage of personal data. In a global context where data security is a priority issue, this law aligns with international standards such as the European RGPD.

This article explores the key provisions of this law, the penalties for non-compliance, and its implications for companies operating in Cameroon.

Key provisions of Cameroonian law

1. User consent

The collection of personal data is now subject to explicit, free and informed consent. Companies must :

• Clearly inform users of the purpose of data collection.
• Offer simple mechanisms for withdrawing consent.

2. Security and confidentiality

Companies must implement technical and organizational measures to protect data against :

• Leaks.
• Unauthorized access.
• Accidental alteration or destruction.

3. Right of access and rectification

Every individual has the right to :

• Consult data held on him/her.
• Request rectification or deletion of this data, except in the case of legal exceptions.

4. Purpose limitation

The data collected may only be used within the framework strictly defined at the time of collection. Any use outside this framework is considered a violation.

Penalties for non-compliance

One of the strengths of this new law lies in the dissuasive penalties for offenders. These penalties include :

1. Financial penalties

Non-compliant companies risk heavy fines, proportional to their sales. For example:

• A fine of up to 2 % to 4 % of total sales for serious violations.
• Fixed amounts of up to several million FCFA for minor offences.

2. Administrative penalties

In the event of a repeat offence or serious breach, the authorities may :

• Temporarily suspend the activities of the company concerned.
• Withdraw licenses or authorizations required to operate.

3. Criminal liability

Company managers may also be held criminally liable in the event of :

• Serious negligence in data management.
• Fraudulent use of personal data.

These penalties are intended to create a framework of deterrence, encouraging companies to take data protection seriously.

Implications for Cameroonian companies

1. The need to invest in compliance

Visit compliance with the new law requires in-depth analysis of existing practices and investments in :

• Securing information systems.
• Training employees in the new legal requirements.

2. Risk management

Companies now have to integrate governance, risk and compliance (GRC) to avoid :

• Financial losses due to sanctions.
• Reputational damage in the event of a data leak.

3. Opportunities

Compliance with this law is not only a constraint, but also a source of satisfaction. business opportunity. By guaranteeing security and transparency, companies can :

• Build customer loyalty.
• Increase their competitiveness on international markets.

Recommendations for effective compliance

1. Perform an initial audit

An audit enables us to assess the gaps between current practices and legal requirements. This exercise is essential to identify areas of vulnerability.

2. Implement a data protection policy

Companies must define clear policies that include :

• Compliant collection and treatment processes.
• Mechanisms for responding to user requests (access, rectification, deletion).

3. Invest in data security

This includes the implementation of technologies such as :

• Encryption of sensitive data.
• Advanced firewalls to prevent cyber-attacks.

4. Raising employee awareness and training

Data breaches are often due to human error. Regular training ensures that all employees understand their responsibilities.

How does Axis Intelligence support companies?

To meet the needs of Cameroonian companies faced with these new regulations, several specialized services are offered:

1. Compliance audit In-depth analysis of current practices to identify risks and propose solutions.
2. Compliance : Creation and implementation of policies adapted to legal requirements.
3. Team training Practical workshops to train employees in best practices and compliance.
4. Technology solutions : AI-based cybersecurity tools to prevent data leakage and detect threats.

Conclusion

Cameroon's new data protection law represents a major turning point in the governance of personal data. For companies, it means significant adjustments, but also opportunities to boost competitiveness and customer confidence.

By taking proactive measures and working with compliance experts, companies can turn these new obligations into strategic advantages. With the right services and local expertise, they are ready to meet the challenges of this new digital era.

FAQ

1. Who is affected by this law?
All companies and institutions operating in Cameroon and collecting personal data.

2. What types of data are protected?
Any information that directly or indirectly identifies a person, including names, addresses, telephone numbers and biometric data.

3. What to do in the event of a violation
It is mandatory to notify the relevant authorities and individuals as soon as possible.

4. What are the benefits of a compliance audit?
An audit identifies shortcomings and proposes concrete solutions to bring practices into line with legal requirements.

5. Does the law apply to international companies?
Yes, any company processing the data of Cameroonian citizens is subject to these regulations.