Vendor Privacy Audit

Overview

GDPR Article 28(3)(h) requires that the processor "make available to the controller all information necessary to demonstrate compliance with the obligations laid down in Article 28, and allow for and contribute to audits, including inspections, conducted by the controller or another auditor mandated by the controller." This audit right is a cornerstone of the controller's accountability obligations and must be exercisable in practice.

The EDPB Guidelines 07/2020 (paragraph 110) emphasize that audit rights must be practical and exercisable, not merely theoretical. Controllers must develop structured audit programs proportionate to the risk of the processing.

At Summit Cloud Partners, the Vendor Privacy Audit Program provides a systematic approach to verifying processor compliance through on-site inspections, remote audits, and documentation reviews.

Audit Types

Type 1: Documentation-Based Audit (Remote)

Suitable for standard-risk vendors with current third-party certifications.