With the December 1 registration deadline for Jamaica’s Data Protection Act (DPA) fast approaching, Symptai Consulting Limited emphasizes the urgent need for businesses to prioritize compliance.

At the recently concluded JTDA BizTech 2024 Conference, Stuart Hylton, Symptai’s Director of Assurance and Compliance, delivered a compelling workshop titled ‘Implementing the Data Protection Act: A Practical Guide.’

Hylton challenged attendees to ask themselves, “Are you ready to demonstrate your compliance?”Emphasizing the importance of ownership, he implored businesses to evaluate their data-handling practices, identify potential risks to the individuals whose data they collect, and designate a knowledgeable person to oversee privacy initiatives. “Compliance does not happen by accident. It requires deliberate action, dedicated resources, and a commitment to protecting the trust of your customers,” Hylton stated.

Using a real-world example, Hylton referenced a recent data breach experienced by a Jamaican organization, which incurred a significant financial cost of approximately USD 36 million to recover. He urged businesses not to wait until they are faced with a crisis. “Why wait to see what happens when you can act now? The cost of inaction is far greater than the effort of ensuring compliance today.”

The workshop also highlighted the broader benefits of compliance. Hylton explained that aligning with the Data Protection Act not only reduces risk but can enhance business processes, increase productivity, and improve customer trust and service delivery. “Data protection isn’t just about avoiding penalties; it’s about positioning your business for long-term success,” he added.

Symptai’s session provided attendees with valuable insights, equipping them with the knowledge to meet the eight data standards required under the Act and to approach compliance strategically. Hylton clarified that compliance is not just for large enterprises; small businesses also stand to gain significant value by investing in data privacy.

In response to growing regional urgency, Symptai is extending its call to action beyond Jamaica, where they are working with organizations in territories across the region in various stages of enacting and executing protection regulations—emphasizing the importance of data privacy readiness. This includes Bermuda, where the Personal Information Protection Act (PIPA) will come into effect on January 1, 2025. Symptai is actively extending support to help organizations navigate the complexities of compliance, including plans for educational initiatives such as free webinars to equip businesses with practical tools and insights.

Hylton reinforced the importance of immediate action, stressing that compliance is more than meeting deadlines. “Compliance is about securing your business, building trust with your customers, and safeguarding against the costly consequences of data breaches,” he stated.

For businesses still navigating their compliance journey, Symptai remains a trusted resource, providing insights and support to help organizations not only meet their obligations but also leverage data protection as a strategic advantage. With the deadline looming, Symptai emphasizes the importance of acting now to safeguard sensitive information, build trust, and enhance operational resilience.