Why e-commerce sellers should care about GDPR in 2025 and beyond 

Data is the lifeblood of e-commerce. From customer profiles to payment details, the information you collect powers your business. But with that data comes responsibility – and risk. That’s where GDPR comes into play. 

Originally introduced in 2018, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) was designed to give individuals in the EU and UK greater control over their personal data. Fast forward to 2025, and GDPR has become more than just a compliance requirement – it’s a critical shield against a new wave of cyber threats, and if you’re expanding into Europe and/or the UK, here’s what you need to know about this essential regulation. 

What is GDPR, and what are its core principles? 

GDPR is a legal framework that governs how businesses collect, store, and use personal data. It applies to any organisation, inside and outside of the UK/EU, that handles data from EU or UK residents. 

Its 4 core principles include: 

1. Data minimisation: only collect what’s necessary 
2. Security by design: build privacy into your systems from the outset 
3. Transparency: clearly explain how data is used 
4. User rights: allow individuals to access, correct, or delete their data 

🚨 Why GDPR matters so much – the 6 threats you need to be aware of 

The e-commerce landscape is under siege from increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. Sellers are up against: 

1. AI-driven cyber attacks: Cybercriminals now use AI to launch smarter, faster attacks, such as deepfake phishing and adaptive malware that evolves to bypass your defences. 

2. Payment fraud & account takeovers: From card-not-present fraud to synthetic identities, online platforms and sellers are prime targets for financial crime. We’ve previously discussed what to do if your account is attacked and taken over – something to be aware of during peak periods, when competition for sales is at its fiercest. 

3. Bot attacks: A considerable amount (over 70%!) of e-commerce traffic is now generated by bots, many malicious ones. These bots scrape pricing data, hoard inventory, or test stolen credentials. 

4. MFA bypass techniques: Even multi-factor authentication (MFA) is no longer foolproof. Attackers use SIM-swapping, phishing, and malware to hijack accounts. 

5. Third-party vulnerabilities: Plugins, APIs, and third-party services can introduce security gaps if not properly managed. 

6. Dark web marketplaces: Stolen data is actively traded online, fuelling a cycle of fraud and identity theft. 

How does GDPR help you stay secure? 

GDPR isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about building resilience. By following its principles, you’re already taking major steps to protect your business: 

• Encryption and access controls reduce the impact of data breaches 

• Data audits help identify vulnerabilities before attackers do 

• Clear privacy policies build trust with customers 

• Vendor due diligence ensures your partners don’t become your weakest link 

How do Europe’s top e-commerce marketplaces handle your and your buyers’ data? 

Each major e-commerce platform operating in Europe and the UK must comply with GDPR, no matter where they’re based. Still, their approaches vary slightly depending on their infrastructure, business model, and geographic footprint. Here’s how the most popular marketplaces will implement GDPR in 2025: 

Amazon (EU & UK)

• A Data Privacy Dashboard for customers and sellers to manage personal data 

• Uses regional data centres in the EU to avoid cross-border data transfer issues 

• Provides data processing agreements for sellers using Amazon services 

• Implements automated tools for GDPR data access and deletion requests 

eBay

• A centralised privacy centre where users can download or delete their data 

• Seller tools that ensure buyer data is only used for order fulfilment 

• Regular compliance audits and updates to privacy policies 

• Data localisation for EU users to minimise international transfers 

Zalando 

The German-based platform is deeply embedded in EU data protection culture: 

• Applies privacy-by-design principles across its tech stack 

• Offers granular consent controls for marketing and tracking 

• Ensures third-party sellers on its platform also meet GDPR standards 

Allegro  

As one of Eastern Europe’s largest marketplaces, the Polish marketplace Allegro aligns with GDPR by: 

• Hosting data on EU-based servers 

• Providing clear opt-in/opt-out options for marketing communications 

• Offering data access and correction tools for both buyers and sellers 

Otto  

German marketplace Otto is known for its strict compliance: 

• Implements end-to-end encryption for customer data 

• Requires GDPR training for all third-party sellers 

• Maintains transparent data processing records and privacy notices 

Cdiscount  

Top French marketplace Cdiscount ensures GDPR compliance through: 

• Consent-based marketing and cookie management tools 

• A dedicated data protection officer (DPO) overseeing compliance 

• Secure seller portals with limited access to customer data 

What does GDPR compliance mean for sellers? 

If you’re selling on any of these platforms, GDPR compliance is largely built into the infrastructure. However, you’re still responsible for: 

• Handling customer data responsibly (e.g. not exporting it to unauthorised systems) 

• Responding to data requests if you store customer information outside the platform 

• Following platform-specific policies on data use and communication 

• Align your practices with GDPR – and choose platforms like AVASK’s that store data within the UK and EU so you’re not only staying compliant, but also building a more secure, trustworthy business 

AVASK and GDPR: a strategic advantage 

Working with a GDPR-compliant partner like AVASK gives you a head start. AVASK stores its client data within the UK and EU, ensuring it’s protected under GDPR. This means: 

• No risky international data transfers 

• Stronger legal protections 

• Simplified compliance for your business 

GDPR: your key takeaways 

In 2025, GDPR is more than a legal obligation – it’s a strategic necessity.

If you trade in Europe and the UK on a digital marketplace and work with a partner like AVASK, you’re assured of protection for your own, your seller account, and your customers’ data. Still, you’ll need to be on the lookout for the increasingly sophisticated threats. Arm yourself with recovery strategies if your account is hit by a competitor attack or data breach. 

GDPR offers a framework for remaining compliant, secure, and competitive in a world where data is your greatest asset and your biggest vulnerability.