Tool Overview:
ComplyCloud

About ComplyCloud

ComplyCloud is a Danish SaaS platform that combines legal expertise with software automation to help organizations manage data protection and IT security compliance. Founded in 2017 in response to GDPR implementation challenges, the platform has grown to serve over 600 customers including Parken stadium and Imerco retail chain. The company was founded by Martin Folke Vasehus, a trained lawyer, and operates from its headquarters in Denmark.

What does ComplyCloud do?

The platform functions as an end-to-end compliance management system that addresses multiple regulatory frameworks including GDPR, NIS2, and the EU AI Act. It automates compliance tasks through a combination of software tools and built-in legal expertise. The system handles vendor management, risk assessments, whistleblower reporting, and transfer impact assessments (TIAs). For vendor management, the platform collects and organizes vendor information, conducts audits, and manages ongoing vendor communication. The risk management component follows ISO 27005 guidelines and incorporates threat catalogs based on ENISA recommendations.

ComplyCloud's whistleblower module provides anonymous reporting channels with end-to-end encryption and supports 18 languages. The system enables secure communication between whistleblowers and case handlers while maintaining anonymity. For international data transfers, the platform includes automated TIA capabilities with pre-built risk assessments for key countries such as India, China, and Brazil.

What makes ComplyCloud different?

A key distinguishing feature of ComplyCloud is its integration of legal expertise directly into the software. Rather than providing just a technical solution, the platform embeds legal knowledge and interpretation into its automated workflows. This approach aims to reduce the need for separate legal consultation while ensuring compliance requirements are properly addressed.

The platform emphasizes security through features such as client-side encryption with individual encryption keys, multi-factor authentication, and EU-based hosting through a German provider. ComplyCloud maintains ISO 27001 certification and undergoes ISAE 3402 audits. The company has also developed BC5701, which it describes as the first GDPR standard and certification in Europe.

Use cases and industries

ComplyCloud targets organizations that need to comply with European data protection and security regulations, particularly those using cloud-based tools like Microsoft 365. The platform addresses specific compliance challenges such as the recent European Data Protection Supervisor's decision regarding Microsoft 365's GDPR non-compliance due to data transfer issues.

The platform serves organizations requiring comprehensive compliance management across multiple frameworks. Its automated approach aims to reduce compliance workload by up to 80% through pre-built content, automated assessments, and streamlined documentation. The system supports various compliance scenarios including GDPR implementation, NIS2 directive adherence, AI system risk assessment, and whistleblower protection requirements under EU regulations.