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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.

Waze logo

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 logo

OsmAnd

🇳🇱

by OsmAnd B.V.

OsmAnd was founded in 2010 by Victor Shcherb and a group of OpenStreetMap enthusiasts who wanted a truly offline-first navigation app that respects user privacy. Registered as OsmAnd B.V. in Amstelveen, Netherlands, the app uses OpenStreetMap data for detailed offline maps and turn-by-turn navigation without requiring an internet connection. Unlike Google Maps or Waze, OsmAnd collects no user data and supports navigation profiles for cars, bikes, pedestrians, boats, and public transport.

EU-hostedOpen SourceGDPR Compliant
freemium
View Details
Visit OsmAnd
komoot logo

komoot

🇩🇪

by 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
freemium
View Details
Visit komoot

Quick GDPR Compliance Comparison

ServiceHQ LocationGDPR NativeEU Data CentersCLOUD Act FreePricing
🇺🇸Waze
United StatesNoPartialNofree
🇳🇱OsmAndNLYesYesYesfreemium
🇩🇪komootDEYesYesYesfreemium

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

GDPR Alternative to Apple MapsGDPR Alternative to Google Maps

Related Pages

Migration Resources

Last updated: January 29, 2026