Companies can’t default to legitimate interest for data use, EU privacy guidance says

( November 11, 2026, 11:00 GMT | Official Statement) -- MLex Summary: Companies must assess and document why their use of personal data is necessary and doesn’t override individuals’ rights before relying on “legitimate interests,” according to guidelines adopted by the European Data Protection Board on Tuesday. The board, which brings together national privacy regulators, said this legal basis under the General Data Protection Regulation must not become a default option simply because companies see it as less demanding than alternatives.The guidelines, an annex and a summary are attached....

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