GDPR Compliance Risk

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

GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Waze

🇺🇸Google (Alphabet) · US-based · Subject to CLOUD Act

Community-driven navigation app with real-time traffic updates, police alerts, and road hazard reports.

Why You Need a GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Waze

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

CLOUD Act Exposure

US authorities can access your data stored by Waze, 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

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

2 GDPR-Compliant Alternatives to Waze

European services with full GDPR compliance and EU data residency

OsmAnd

🇪🇺

OsmAnd is a comprehensive navigation and mapping application that leverages the power of OpenStreetMaps to provide reliable and detailed maps for users around the world. Designed to function seamlessly offline, OsmAnd ensures that users can access maps and navigation tools without the need for an internet connection, making it an ideal choice for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts. Key features include turn-by-turn voice guidance, customizable map displays, and the ability to save favorite locations. OsmAnd stands out with its commitment to privacy and security, hosting data within the EU to ensure compliance with GDPR and offering users peace of mind regarding data sovereignty. This makes it particularly appealing to privacy-conscious users and organizations operating within Europe. The app is suitable for a wide range of users, from casual travelers to professional drivers and cyclists. OsmAnd offers a freemium pricing model, with a free version available and additional features accessible through a paid subscription. By prioritizing user privacy and offering robust offline capabilities, OsmAnd provides a reliable and secure navigation solution for those who value data protection and accessibility.

EU-hostedOpen SourceGDPR Compliant

freemiumMigration:●●●

Why switch?

OsmAnd uses OpenStreetMaps, ensuring community-driven updates.
Works offline, saving data and battery during long trips.
Full GDPR compliance protects user data under EU regulations.

Consider

Waze's real-time traffic updates are more frequent and detailed.
OsmAnd lacks community reports for hazards and police alerts.

View Details Compare Switch Guide

Visit OsmAnd

komoot

🇪🇺

Komoot is a versatile navigation and maps application designed for outdoor enthusiasts in Europe, offering comprehensive route planning for cycling and hiking. With its intuitive interface, users can easily create custom routes, set waypoints, and access community-generated trail recommendations to enhance their outdoor adventures. Key features include offline maps for uninterrupted navigation, voice guidance for hands-free operation, and seamless integration with fitness tracking devices. Komoot caters to cyclists, hikers, and outdoor explorers who seek reliable and customizable navigation tools. A standout feature is its commitment to user privacy and security, with GDPR-compliant data handling and EU-hosted servers ensuring data sovereignty and protection. The app supports multiple languages, making it accessible to a diverse user base across Europe. Komoot offers a freemium pricing model, allowing users to access basic features for free, with premium options available for advanced functionalities.

EU-hostedGDPR Compliant

freemiumMigration:●●●

Why switch?

Komoot offers offline maps, ideal for remote hiking or cycling routes.
Community-generated trail recommendations enhance route discovery.
Customizable waypoints allow tailored trip planning for specific needs.

Consider

Missing real-time traffic updates that Waze provides for drivers.
Learning curve for users unfamiliar with hiking and cycling navigation.

View Details Compare Switch Guide

Visit komoot

Quick GDPR Compliance Comparison

Service	HQ Location	GDPR Native	EU Data Centers	CLOUD Act Free	Pricing
🇺🇸Waze	United States	No	Partial	No	free
🇪🇺OsmAnd	EU	Yes	Yes	Yes	freemium
🇪🇺komoot	EU	Yes	Yes	Yes	freemium

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Waze GDPR compliant?

Waze is a US-based service operated by Google (Alphabet). 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 Waze?

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 Waze?

The top GDPR-compliant alternatives to Waze include OsmAnd, komoot. These European services store your data in EU data centers and are fully subject to GDPR protections.

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

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

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

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Migration Resources

Last updated: January 29, 2026