What Are Standard Contractual Clauses (SCCs)?

ANSWER

Standard Contractual Clauses (SCCs) are standardized and approved model data protection clauses that enable controllers and processors to comply with obligations arising under EU data protection law.

SCCs may be incorporated into contracts concluded between controllers, processors, and their business partners.

It is important to note that:

• the use of SCCs is not mandatory;
• SCCs are used voluntarily as a means of demonstrating compliance with data protection requirements; and
• their use requires the parties to contractually commit to complying with the clauses.

The European Commission is empowered to adopt SCCs for:

• relationships between controllers and processors; and
• transfers of personal data outside the European Economic Area (EEA).