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Bitkom Challenges New Data Protection Guidelines on Pseudonymization

Germany's tech industry faces a dilemma: strict data protection or innovation? Bitkom's bold stance reveals the cracks in Europe's regulatory framework.

The image shows an old document with a wax seal on it. The document appears to be a contract, with...
The image shows an old document with a wax seal on it. The document appears to be a contract, with text written on it and a wax stamp attached to it.

Bitkom Challenges New Data Protection Guidelines on Pseudonymization

Bitkom has responded to new guidelines on pseudonymization issued by the Deutsche Datenschutzkonferenz. The statement, released in Berlin on January 28, 2026, highlights concerns over legal clarity for businesses. Susanne Dehmel, a member of the Bitkom executive board, argued that data protection rules often hinder innovation in Germany.

The EDSA 01/2025 Guidelines focus on pseudonymization—a technique that alters personal data so it cannot be directly traced back to an individual without extra details. Dehmel suggested this method could help balance data protection with the needs of AI and digital business models.

She also pointed out that conflicting and unclear regulations leave companies unsure about whether pseudonymized data will be accepted by authorities. This uncertainty, she explained, creates obstacles for firms trying to innovate while complying with the law.

Bitkom's full position on the guidelines is available online at www.ourwebsite/sites/main/files/2025-03/bitkom-position-edpb-guidelines-01-2025-on-pseudonymization.pdf.

The guidelines aim to clarify how pseudonymization fits into data protection frameworks. However, Bitkom's response underscores ongoing challenges for businesses navigating legal requirements. The organization continues to push for clearer rules to support both compliance and technological progress.

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