Secure top talent with reliable data protection and impress partners and customers with proactive data security: We will show you how your company can greatly benefit from data protection and data security.
We analyze, evaluate, and review every application and process across your entire company.
We deliver reliable, user-oriented, and sustainably functional solutions.
Our diverse team also offers top-notch expertise in related areas such as labor law and IT security management.
We explain data protection in a way that makes it understandable for everyone.
Thanks to the many years of experience we collected, we are ideally prepared for all situations and requirements.
In urgent emergencies, we are available for our customers outside regular office hours.
Data protection
It all starts with a thorough analysis. We take a look at your entire company or organization: we analyze all relevant processes and review all applications and services that process personal data. We track all data transfers and work with you to ensure that your company achieves an appropriate level of data protection.
To do this, we ask a lot of questions...
In the next step, we ensure that all externally visible processes and activities, as well as all internal data processing, projects, and tasks, are compliant with data protection regulations and properly documented.
The only mistake you can make when it comes to data protection and data security is to not start at all. The best way to begin is with us: we meet you exactly where your company currently stands and find pragmatic, tailored solutions for your challenges. For us, it doesn't matter whether your company or organization is starting from scratch with data protection, or if we can build on an existing data protection management system. We can also start together if you're about to undergo ISO certification, aiming to reach the next TISAX level, or looking to integrate your data protection management into corporate structures.
Data protection, data security, as well as information security and cybersecurity: Here's how everything is connected.
Cybersecurity
At GfDDE GmbH, our commitment goes far beyond standard data protection: In today's digital era, effective data protection must be seamlessly integrated into comprehensive cybersecurity strategies.
Instead of merely reacting, we aim to shape and enhance our customers' security architecture from the very beginning. Our services are specifically designed to ensure the seamless protection of corporate data while supporting operational processes.
Our experts bring up to 30 years of experience in cybersecurity, enabling us to ensure that our solutions are not only up-to-date but also forward-thinking.
Our state-of-the-art portfolio includes preventive and proactive services and solutions in the field of cybersecurity:
We proactively identify potential vulnerabilities in your IT infrastructure, allowing us to mitigate risks before they become threats.
By simulating cyberattacks, we test the robustness of your security systems and help address vulnerabilities.
Our experts analyze and investigate digital data to identify and understand the causes of security breaches, while securing evidence for legal actions.
We train your employees to enhance awareness of cybersecurity risks and promote security-conscious behavior.
In the event of a security incident, we provide swift and effective solutions to mitigate damage and restore system integrity.
Digital Sovereignty
Keywords like “digital sovereignty” or “dependency on hyperscalers” currently dominate media and professional debates—fueled by geopolitical crises and the first concrete restrictions for European institutions. Digital sovereignty means more than technological independence: it represents the autonomous operation and control of digital infrastructures, systems, and data—both by organizations and individuals. It also stands for the protection of strategic capabilities and fundamental rights in the digital space.
Behind these discussions lies the recognition and concern that companies, institutions, and society have lost control over their own data. This is not about isolation, but about the freedom to make decisions independently.
Proprietary cloud solutions from Microsoft, Amazon, or Google have created deep dependencies. Arbitrary price increases, unilateral license changes, and the growing willingness of US policymakers to enforce economic interests through pressure are one side of the issue. The other: legally granted access rights for US authorities to platform data create tangible data protection and compliance risks.
The notion of having no alternatives is a myth. In nearly every area, solutions exist that can be better tailored to individual business requirements, create fewer dependencies, facilitate data protection and compliance, and at the same time offer a way out of the cost trap.
Complete independence is neither realistic nor the goal. What matters is finding the right balance: open where innovation and efficiency are needed—sovereign where information security and business agility are at stake.
We help you achieve this balance: together, we develop alternatives that come together into an efficient, secure, and sovereign system—from operating systems to collaboration tools, alternative data clouds, and national IT service providers.
Even if an immediate switch is not yet feasible, know your Plan B—and be prepared.
Working method
Data protection and data security are a top priority. Ignoring them or taking them lightly will sooner or later have serious consequences.
At the same time, data protection and data security are of little value if they fail in daily implementation—because hardly anyone understands what it’s all about.
This is exactly where GfDDE comes into play.
Our experience in working with various data protection authorities and our involvement in different data protection associations also support us in this endeavor.
In addition, we place a strong emphasis on raising awareness and providing training for your employees, who handle large volumes of personal data on a daily basis and are therefore a crucial key to success in terms of data protection and security.
High competence and mutual respect as the key to success
The key to these creative and simultaneously sustainable solutions lies, alongside high technical expertise, in mutual respect and communication on equal terms. With a realistic assessment of the requirements, desires, and needs of our clients, we consistently succeed in conveying the meaning, purpose, and concrete benefits of data protection and security in a way that truly resonates with all involved—employees and partners alike.
We act decisively on the matter, while always remaining respectful and calm in tone.
In short: For us, it is a true pleasure to advise and support your company on data protection and data security.
Our experience in working with various data protection authorities and our involvement in different data protection associations also support us in this endeavor.
In addition, we place a strong emphasis on raising awareness and providing training for your employees, who handle large volumes of personal data on a daily basis and are therefore a crucial key to success in terms of data protection and security.
High competence and mutual respect as the key to success
The key to these creative and simultaneously sustainable solutions lies, alongside high technical expertise, in mutual respect and communication on equal terms. With a realistic assessment of the requirements, desires, and needs of our clients, we consistently succeed in conveying the meaning, purpose, and concrete benefits of data protection and security in a way that truly resonates with all involved—employees and partners alike.
We act decisively on the matter, while always remaining respectful and calm in tone.
In short: For us, it is a true pleasure to advise and support your company on data protection and data security.
Working method
As managing partner, Ulrike-Alexandra Seitzinger MBA is your beacon in the storm of data protection regulations, as well as in all matters and requirements related to data security. The basis of her comprehensive expertise are her many years of experience as a certified data protection officer for a wide range of organizations.
Due to her many years of experience in various corporate groups, the lawyer, certified HR manager, and trained business mediator is familiar with all the conventions of the corporate world. Long-standing clients especially value her experience and expertise in finding pragmatic solutions to complex, cross-departmental issues.
Last but not least, Ulrike-Alexandra Seitzinger also brings a broad legal expertise as a lawyer, allowing her to substantiate and moderate any discussions or issues from a professional standpoint.
Her personal strength lies in her calm, human communication style and her approachable, affable manner.
Jens Burkard is your reliable guide through the diverse requirements of IT security and data protection. His extensive expertise is based on more than 35 years of professional experience in IT, including over 16 years with a particular focus on data protection and information security.
As an IT systems engineer and IT manager, he worked for renowned consulting firms and served clients in the insurance, banking, and industrial sectors. Today, Jens Burkard supports organizations of all sizes – from international corporations to mid-sized companies – in developing and implementing tailored IT and data protection strategies.
A notable milestone in his career was his involvement in establishing the Catholic Data Protection Authority in Frankfurt, where he contributed his expertise as a certified Data Protection Officer and certified Information Security Officer.
Long-standing clients particularly value his deep technical understanding, analytical approach, and ability to tackle even complex challenges pragmatically and solution-oriented.
Jens Burkard's personal strength lies in his calm, structured communication, as well as in his clear yet personable and engaging manner.
As a certified Data Protection Officer, Anja Beyersdorff combines her professional expertise with extensive experience in sustainability and process management. Her career is marked by many years as managing director of a consulting firm specializing in process optimization, where she successfully implemented Lean Six Sigma approaches.
In addition, she has solid expertise in the development, organization, and implementation of e-learning formats. Her deep understanding of process development and design enables her to create efficient structures and establish sustainable improvements within organizations.
Particularly valuable is Anja Beyersdorff's perspective from two angles: she is familiar with both the executive side of a company and that of a consulting partner. This dual perspective enables her to reconcile differing interests and develop pragmatic, practical solutions.
Anja Beyersdorff is known for clear, structured communication and has the ability to engage people on an equal footing, guiding change processes with trust and confidence.
Due to her many years of experience in various corporate groups, the lawyer, certified HR manager, and trained business mediator is familiar with all the conventions of the corporate world. Long-standing clients especially value her experience and expertise in finding pragmatic solutions to complex, cross-departmental issues.
Last but not least, Ulrike-Alexandra Seitzinger also brings a broad legal expertise as a lawyer, allowing her to substantiate and moderate any discussions or issues from a professional standpoint.
Her personal strength lies in her calm, human communication style and her approachable, affable manner.
Jens Burkard is your reliable guide through the diverse requirements of IT security and data protection. His extensive expertise is based on more than 35 years of professional experience in IT, including over 16 years with a particular focus on data protection and information security.
As an IT systems engineer and IT manager, he worked for renowned consulting firms and served clients in the insurance, banking, and industrial sectors. Today, Jens Burkard supports organizations of all sizes – from international corporations to mid-sized companies – in developing and implementing tailored IT and data protection strategies.
A notable milestone in his career was his involvement in establishing the Catholic Data Protection Authority in Frankfurt, where he contributed his expertise as a certified Data Protection Officer and certified Information Security Officer.
Long-standing clients particularly value his deep technical understanding, analytical approach, and ability to tackle even complex challenges pragmatically and solution-oriented.
Jens Burkard's personal strength lies in his calm, structured communication, as well as in his clear yet personable and engaging manner.
As a certified Data Protection Officer, Anja Beyersdorff combines her professional expertise with extensive experience in sustainability and process management. Her career is marked by many years as managing director of a consulting firm specializing in process optimization, where she successfully implemented Lean Six Sigma approaches.
In addition, she has solid expertise in the development, organization, and implementation of e-learning formats. Her deep understanding of process development and design enables her to create efficient structures and establish sustainable improvements within organizations.
Particularly valuable is Anja Beyersdorff's perspective from two angles: she is familiar with both the executive side of a company and that of a consulting partner. This dual perspective enables her to reconcile differing interests and develop pragmatic, practical solutions.
Anja Beyersdorff is known for clear, structured communication and has the ability to engage people on an equal footing, guiding change processes with trust and confidence.
The management team is complemented by a strong group of experts who contribute their experience and expertise daily in projects, training sessions, and direct interactions with our clients. Together, we stand for competence, practical orientation, and reliability – combining legal, technical, and organizational know-how with a clear understanding of the individual requirements of the business world.
Long-standing clients particularly value the trustful collaboration, open communication, and commitment of each team member. This creates a versatile team that passionately develops practical solutions and reliably supports organizations in all matters related to data protection, information security, and process design.
By Ulrike-Alexandra Seitzinger’s side, you will find a diverse team of specialists:
• Fully qualified lawyers
• Certified data protection officers
• Certified data protection auditors
• Certified information security officers
• Certified process managers
• Sustainability managers
• Organizational developers, business economists
We continually educate ourselves to stay at least on par with, or even ahead of, the ever-evolving demands and rapid changes in data protection and data security.
• Equipment, machinery, and plant engineering
• Cybersecurity services
• IT service providers
• Pharmaceuticals
• Sports and fitness industry
• Healthcare sector (rehabilitation clinics, medical supply stores, and doctors)
• Market research
• Aerospace
• Railway vehicle manufacturers
• Logistics
• Associations and federations
• Management consultancies
• Insurance brokers
• Economic development
• Hotels
• Advertising/marketing agencies
and many more.
Many talk about it, some reject it, and others defend it: Data protection has sparked plenty of discussions, especially since the final implementation of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in 2018. We have the answers to the most important questions.
Simply put, data protection refers to the protection of personal data of natural persons, such as name, date of birth, address, and phone number. If this data is misused, meaning processed without a legal basis that permits the otherwise prohibited processing, it constitutes a legal violation.
While data protection focuses on the protection of personal data of individuals, data security is concerned with protecting business information, trade secrets, as well as intellectual property or know-how from misuse or unauthorized access. This can also include the data of customers and business partners.
A prerequisite for data security is the assurance of IT security.
Data protection is part of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights. It stipulates that "personal data may only be processed fairly, for specified purposes, and with the consent of the data subject or based on legal grounds."
At the national level, data protection is enshrined in the German Constitution (Grundgesetz) under the so-called right to informational self-determination. This is a derivative of the general right to personality, which is based on the inherent dignity of the individual.
The legal basis for data protection in Germany and Europe is the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which officially came into effect in 2018.
In addition to the uniformly applicable provisions of the GDPR, there are also further regulations in national legislation.
The rights of data subjects are outlined in Chapter 3 of the GDPR. These include, among others:
The GDPR primarily applies to data processing in the professional and commercial context. Private emails or conversations are generally not affected.
Conversely, this means that ALL companies are ALWAYS affected by data protection regulations.
Data protection violations can have severe legal, financial, and reputational consequences for the affected company.
Fines from regulatory authorities, along with compensation claims from affected individuals, can easily threaten the company's existence.
Furthermore, the lack of data protection compliance can lead to personal liability for managing directors or executives.
The same applies to insufficient IT and data security: a successful cyberattack often results in long-term operational incapacity for the company, puts many "victims" into existential crises, or directly leads to insolvency.
Since the official introduction of the GDPR in 2018, more and more people view data protection and data security as important issues. On the one hand, employees want to be sure they work for a company that takes data protection and data security seriously and acts accordingly. On the other hand, customers, partners, investors, shareholders, and other stakeholders want to collaborate only with partners who meet the requirements of data protection and data security.
Viewed in this light, data protection presents an opportunity to distinguish oneself positively from competitors in a highly competitive market—or to keep up if competitors are well-positioned.
Those who invest wisely and systematically in data protection and data security from the outset can significantly reduce the numerous risks for their business and themselves, thus contributing decisively to the long-term success of their company.
US Supreme Court kippt FTC-Unabhängigkeit: Rechtsgrundlage des EU-US Data Privacy Framework weiter erschüttert Der US Supreme Court hat am 29. Juni 2026 im Verfahren Trump v. Slaughter mit 6:3-Mehrheit entschieden, dass die gesetzlichen Abberufungsschutzregelungen für
Storing corporate data in European data centers operated by U.S. providers does not rule out access by U.S. authorities. A legal opinion by the University of Cologne, commissioned by the German Federal Ministry of the Interior and published in December 2025, confirms that U.S. authorities have extensive access to cloud data stored in Europe.
Since January 2026, a sophisticated phishing campaign has been active in which attackers send deceptive emails using the legitimate Microsoft sender address no-reply-powerbi@microsoft.com . This is technically possible due to a legitimate feature of Microsoft Power BI: when creating a dashboard, any external email address can be added as a subscriber, and the content of the automatically sent notification can be freely configured.
We look forward to your call or email regarding data security and data protection.
Information about the processing of your personal data can be found here.
