Skip to main content
BuiltInEu

GDPR Compliance Risk

AWS is a US-based service subject to the CLOUD Act. EU organizations using this service risk non-compliance with GDPR data transfer requirements.

AWS logo

GDPR-Compliant Alternative to AWS

🇺🇸AWS · US-based · Subject to CLOUD Act

AWS, or Amazon Web Services, provides a comprehensive cloud storage solution primarily targeting businesses and developers seeking scalable and flexible storage options. It offers scalable object storage solutions that allow users to store and retrieve any amount of data at any time. Key features include multi-region data replication, which ensures data durability and availability, and integrated machine learning services that enable users to build and deploy machine learning models directly within the AWS ecosystem. AWS also supports serverless computing with AWS Lambda, allowing users to run code without provisioning or managing servers. The platform includes comprehensive security and compliance tools to help users manage their data securely. AWS operates on a pay-as-you-go pricing model, offering a freemium tier for new users. It is important to note that AWS is based in the United States, and user data is stored under US jurisdiction, making it subject to US data laws such as the CLOUD Act and FISA 702. This may be a consideration for users concerned about data privacy and jurisdictional issues.

Why You Need a GDPR-Compliant Alternative to AWS

Since the landmark Schrems II ruling in 2020, transferring personal data to US-based services like AWS has become a significant legal risk for EU organizations. The US CLOUD Act gives American authorities the power to access data held by US companies, regardless of where that data is physically stored — even if it's in an EU data center.

While the EU-US Data Privacy Framework (DPF) adopted in 2023 provides a new legal basis for transfers, privacy experts and legal scholars have raised concerns about its long-term viability. The framework could face the same fate as its predecessors (Safe Harbor and Privacy Shield), both of which were struck down by the Court of Justice of the EU.

For organizations that want to eliminate compliance risk entirely, switching to a European-based cloud storage is the most straightforward solution. Below are the best GDPR-compliant alternatives to AWS, all headquartered in Europe with data stored in EU data centers.

CLOUD Act Exposure

US authorities can access your data stored by AWS, even if servers are located in Europe.

GDPR Fine Risk

Non-compliant data transfers can result in fines up to 4% of annual global revenue under GDPR Article 83.

EU Alternative Available

1 GDPR-compliant European alternative available with full EU data residency.

1 GDPR-Compliant Alternative to AWS

European services with full GDPR compliance and EU data residency

Scaleway logo

Scaleway

🇪🇺

Scaleway is a cloud provider with a variety of services. Besides the public cloud called Scaleway Elements, they also offer dedicated servers and even renting racks in data centers.

GDPR CompliantOpen SourceEU-hosted
freemiumMigration:●●●Several hours to a few days, depending on data size and complexity

Why switch?

  • GDPR compliance ensures EU data protection standards.
  • Open Source promotes transparency and customization.
  • EU-hosted servers reduce latency for EU-based users.

Consider

  • Migration from AWS may require significant effort.
  • Scaleway lacks AWS's multi-region data replication.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Scaleway

Quick GDPR Compliance Comparison

ServiceHQ LocationGDPR NativeEU Data CentersCLOUD Act FreePricing
🇺🇸AWS
United StatesNoPartialNofreemium
🇪🇺ScalewayEUYesYesYesfreemium

Frequently Asked Questions

Is AWS GDPR compliant?

AWS is a US-based service operated by AWS. While it may have some GDPR compliance measures, as a US company it is subject to the CLOUD Act, which allows US authorities to access data stored by US companies regardless of where the data is physically located. This creates a fundamental conflict with GDPR requirements for data protection.

What are the GDPR risks of using AWS?

The main GDPR risks include: (1) Data transfers to the US may lack adequate protection since the Schrems II ruling invalidated Privacy Shield, (2) US authorities can demand access under the CLOUD Act, (3) Your organization may face GDPR fines up to 4% of annual revenue for non-compliant data transfers, and (4) User consent may not be sufficient to legitimize transfers given the systematic access by US authorities.

What are the best GDPR-compliant alternatives to AWS?

The top GDPR-compliant alternatives to AWS include Scaleway. These European services store your data in EU data centers and are fully subject to GDPR protections.

How do I migrate from AWS to a GDPR-compliant alternative?

Most migrations involve three steps: (1) Export your data from AWS using their data export tools, (2) Create an account with your chosen EU alternative, and (3) Import your data into the new service. We provide detailed migration guides for each alternative to make the switch as smooth as possible.

Can EU companies legally use AWS?

Since the Schrems II ruling (2020), EU organizations face significant legal risk when using US cloud services like AWS. While the EU-US Data Privacy Framework (2023) provides a new legal basis, its long-term stability is uncertain. Many EU data protection authorities recommend using EU-based alternatives to avoid compliance risks entirely.

Other GDPR Alternatives in Cloud Storage

GDPR Alternative to DropboxGDPR Alternative to Google DriveGDPR Alternative to iCloudGDPR Alternative to OneDriveGDPR Alternative to Box

Related Pages

Migration Resources

Last updated: January 26, 2026