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GDPR Compliance Risk

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

Mattermost logo

GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Mattermost

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

Accelerate your mission critical workflow by integrating people, processes, tools and AI infrastructure on a resilient and adaptable platform.

Why You Need a GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Mattermost

Since the landmark Schrems II ruling in 2020, transferring personal data to US-based services like Mattermost 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 messaging apps is the most straightforward solution. Below are the best GDPR-compliant alternatives to Mattermost, all headquartered in Europe with data stored in EU data centers.

CLOUD Act Exposure

US authorities can access your data stored by Mattermost, 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

4 GDPR-compliant European alternatives available with full EU data residency.

4 GDPR-Compliant Alternatives to Mattermost

European services with full GDPR compliance and EU data residency

Element logo

Element

🌍

by Element

Element is a Matrix-based end-to-end encrypted messenger and secure collaboration app. It’s decentralised for digital sovereign self-hosting, or through a hosting service such as Element Matrix Services. Element operates on the open Matrix network to provide interoperability and easy connections.

Open SourceSelf-HostableISO 27001EU-hostedGDPR Compliant
freemiumMigration:●●●1-2 days

Why switch?

  • Element uses the Matrix protocol for broader interoperability.
  • End-to-end encryption is enabled by default on all Element plans.
  • Element supports group chats with up to 1000 members, larger than Mattermost.

Consider

  • Migration from Mattermost may require significant data transfer effort.
  • Element's user interface may have a steeper learning curve for new users.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Element
Wire logo

Wire

🇨🇭

by Wire

Collaborate without compromise with Wire, the trusted platform for millions worldwide. Stay in control with end-to-end encryption that's invisible, flexible collaboration, and intuitive user interface. Join now for free and boost your productivity.

EU-BasedGDPR CompliantOpen SourceSelf-HostableSwiss hosted
freemiumMigration:●●●1 day

Why switch?

  • Wire offers integrated video conferencing for real-time meetings.
  • Wire supports customizable user permissions for enhanced team control.
  • Wire's end-to-end encryption is available on all plans for secure messaging.

Consider

  • Migration from Mattermost may require significant data transfer efforts.
  • Wire lacks some Mattermost integrations with third-party APIs.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Wire
Threema logo

Threema

🇨🇭

by Threema

The secure instant messenger from Switzerland. GDPR-compliant messaging for individuals and organizations that value security and data protection.

GDPR CompliantEU-BasedISO 27001Open SourceSelf-HostableSwiss hosted
freemiumMigration:●●●2-3 days

Why switch?

  • Threema uses Swiss servers, enhancing data privacy protections.
  • Anonymous registration in Threema avoids phone number linkage.
  • Threema supports self-destructing messages for enhanced security.

Consider

  • Mattermost has customizable workflows that Threema lacks.
  • Migrating data from Mattermost to Threema can be complex.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Threema
V

Vantevo

🇪🇺

Vantevo is a European messaging app designed to provide secure and private communication for individuals and businesses. Hosted in EU data centers, it ensures compliance with GDPR regulations, offering peace of mind regarding data sovereignty and user privacy. Vantevo supports end-to-end encryption for all messages, safeguarding your conversations from unauthorized access. The app features a real-time message analytics dashboard, allowing users to monitor communication patterns effectively. With customizable user privacy settings and multi-language support, Vantevo caters to a diverse user base across Europe. Secure file sharing and seamless integration with third-party applications make it a versatile choice for businesses seeking reliable communication tools. Vantevo is ideal for privacy-conscious individuals and organizations that prioritize data protection and compliance with European regulations. While specific pricing details are not provided, Vantevo's value lies in its robust security features and commitment to user privacy.

EU-hostedGDPR Compliant
freemiumMigration:●●●1-2 days

Why switch?

  • EU-hosted data centers enhance data sovereignty for EU users.
  • GDPR compliant user consent management simplifies compliance processes.
  • Real-time message analytics dashboard offers insights into user engagement.

Consider

  • Migration from Mattermost may involve data transfer complexities.
  • Fewer known integrations compared to Mattermost's extensive API options.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Vantevo

Quick GDPR Compliance Comparison

ServiceHQ LocationGDPR NativeEU Data CentersCLOUD Act FreePricing
🇺🇸Mattermost
United StatesNoPartialNo-
🌍ElementGBYesYesYesfreemium
🇨🇭WireCHYesYesYesfreemium
🇨🇭ThreemaCHYesYesYesfreemium
🇪🇺VantevoEUYesYesYesfreemium

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mattermost GDPR compliant?

Mattermost is a US-based service operated by Mattermost. 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 Mattermost?

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 Mattermost?

The top GDPR-compliant alternatives to Mattermost include Element, Wire, Threema. These European services store your data in EU data centers and are fully subject to GDPR protections.

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

Most migrations involve three steps: (1) Export your data from Mattermost 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 Mattermost?

Since the Schrems II ruling (2020), EU organizations face significant legal risk when using US cloud services like Mattermost. 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 Messaging Apps

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Related Pages

Migration Resources

Last updated: January 24, 2026