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GDPR Compliance Risk

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

Twilio logo

GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Twilio

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

Twilio is a cloud communications platform that enables developers to integrate voice, messaging, and video capabilities into applications. It provides APIs for seamless communication, enhancing user engagement and connectivity.

Why You Need a GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Twilio

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

CLOUD Act Exposure

US authorities can access your data stored by Twilio, 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 Twilio

European services with full GDPR compliance and EU data residency

MessageBird logo

MessageBird

🇳🇱

by MessageBird

MessageBird is a European communication platform that enables businesses to connect with customers through various channels, including SMS, voice, and chat. It provides a unified API for seamless integration and automation of customer interactions, enhancing engagement and support. Ideal for businesses looking to streamline communication.

EU-BasedGDPR CompliantISO 27001SOC 2 Type IISOC 2Open Source
Migration:●●●2-4 hours

Why switch?

  • MessageBird is fully GDPR compliant, ensuring data protection in the EU.
  • MessageBird offers EU-based servers for data residency and compliance.
  • E2E encryption is available in MessageBird, enhancing message security.

Consider

  • Migration from Twilio may require significant data transfer efforts.
  • MessageBird may lack some Twilio-specific integrations or features.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit MessageBird
CM.com logo

CM.com

🇳🇱

by CM.com

CM.com is a European company that offers a comprehensive communication platform designed to streamline customer interactions. It provides various services including messaging, voice, and payment solutions all in one place. Businesses can enhance customer engagement and operational efficiency using CM.com's integrated tools. Visit their website for more details.

EU-BasedGDPR CompliantEU-hosted
Migration:●●●2-4 hours

Why switch?

  • CM.com servers are located in the EU, ensuring data sovereignty.
  • Full GDPR compliance minimizes legal risks for EU customers.
  • Optional end-to-end encryption enhances message security for users.

Consider

  • Migration may require significant time and resources for data transfer.
  • CM.com may lack some Twilio features like advanced analytics.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit CM.com
Vonage logo

Vonage

🌍

by Vonage

Vonage offers VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services that enable users to make calls over the internet. This European company provides various plans for residential and business needs, featuring unlimited calling options, mobile apps, and integration with popular communication tools. Visit their website for more details.

ISO 27001
Migration:●●●2-4 hours

Why switch?

  • GDPR compliance ensures data protection for EU customers.
  • EU server location reduces latency for European users.
  • Optional E2E encryption enhances security for sensitive data.

Consider

  • Migration may require significant reconfiguration of existing systems.
  • Learning curve for staff unfamiliar with Vonage's interface.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Vonage
Sinch logo

Sinch

🇸🇪

by Sinch

Sinch is a European communication platform that offers cloud-based solutions for messaging, voice, and video services. Designed for businesses, it enables seamless integration of real-time communication into applications, enhancing customer engagement. Sinch focuses on reliability and scalability to meet diverse business needs.

EU-BasedISO 27001ISO 27701SOC 2GDPR Compliant
Migration:●●●2-4 hours

Why switch?

  • Sinch servers are located in the EU, ensuring data residency compliance.
  • Sinch offers full GDPR compliance, reducing legal risks for EU users.
  • Optional end-to-end encryption enhances security for sensitive communications.

Consider

  • Migrating data from Twilio to Sinch may require significant engineering effort.
  • Sinch's feature set may lack some advanced tools available in Twilio.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Sinch

Quick GDPR Compliance Comparison

ServiceHQ LocationGDPR NativeEU Data CentersCLOUD Act FreePricing
🇺🇸Twilio
United StatesNoPartialNo-
🇳🇱MessageBirdNLYesYesYes-
🇳🇱CM.comNLYesYesYes-
🌍VonageGBYesYesYes-
🇸🇪SinchSEYesYesYes-

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Twilio GDPR compliant?

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

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 Twilio?

The top GDPR-compliant alternatives to Twilio include MessageBird, CM.com, Vonage. These European services store your data in EU data centers and are fully subject to GDPR protections.

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

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

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

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Related Pages

Migration Resources

Last updated: February 6, 2026