Financial Crime World

Egyptian Data Protection Law Imposes Strict Requirements for Transferring Personal Data

The Egyptian Data Protection Law has introduced stringent requirements for controllers and processors of personal data to ensure the protection of state interests and individual rights. In this article, we will explore the key provisions of the law and their implications for businesses operating in Egypt.

Transfer of Personal Data Outside Egypt

According to Article 15 of the law, the transfer of personal data outside Egypt is only permitted if:

  • The data subject gives express consent
  • The recipient country has sufficient legal protection for personal data
  • The transfer is necessary for a specific purpose and is not contrary to Egyptian laws or regulations

Authorization from the Data Protection Centre

In all cases, authorization must be obtained from the Data Protection Centre before transferring personal data outside Egypt.

Severe Penalties for Non-Compliance

The law imposes severe penalties for non-compliance, including:

  • Fines ranging from EGP 100,000 to EGP 1 million
  • Imprisonment for a minimum of six months

For collecting sensitive personal data without approval or in unauthorized circumstances, the penalty is:

  • Imprisonment for a period of not less than three months
  • A fine ranging between EGP 500,000 and EGP 5 million

Cybersecurity Laws and Regulations

The Cybercrimes Law No. 175 of 2018 regulates content posted on websites and activities provided by internet service providers. This law aims to combat cybercrime and protect online users from harm.

Key Provisions of the Cybercrimes Law

  • Regulates content posted on websites
  • Regulates activities provided by internet service providers
  • Aims to combat cybercrime and protect online users from harm

AML and Financial Crime Requirements

Fintech businesses operating in Egypt must comply with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) requirements set forth in the Anti-Money Laundering Law No. 80 of 2002. Additionally, companies licensed by the Financial Regulatory Authority to engage in non-banking financial activities using fintech must abide by AML and terrorist financing controls.

Key Provisions of the Anti-Money Laundering Law

  • Regulates AML requirements for fintech businesses
  • Sets forth requirements for combating money laundering and terrorist financing

Hiring and Dismissal of Staff

Egyptian law heavily regulates the hiring and dismissal of employees. An employee can only be terminated in specific cases and conditions, with certain procedures required before termination can occur.

Key Provisions of Egyptian Labor Law

  • Regulates hiring and dismissal of employees
  • Requires specific procedures for terminating employment contracts

IP Protection

Innovations and inventions are protected through patent, copyright, and trademark registration. Egypt is a member of several conventions and agreements related to intellectual property (IP), allowing for the enforcement of IP rights across jurisdictions.

Key Provisions of Egyptian IP Law

  • Protects innovations and inventions through patent, copyright, and trademark registration
  • Allows for the enforcement of IP rights across jurisdictions

For more information on data protection, cybersecurity, AML, fintech regulations, and IP protection in Egypt, please contact our legal experts at [Your Law Firm].