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GDPR Compliance Risk

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

Webex logo

GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Webex

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

Webex, developed by Cisco, is a video conferencing platform that facilitates virtual meetings and collaboration. It offers high-definition video quality and a range of features designed to enhance the user experience. Key functionalities include AI-powered meeting insights, virtual backgrounds and filters, and screen sharing with annotation tools. Webex also integrates team messaging and provides customizable meeting layouts to suit different user needs. Additionally, it supports webinar hosting and offers real-time transcription services to aid communication. The platform is primarily used by businesses and organizations seeking to connect teams and conduct meetings remotely. Webex operates under U.S. jurisdiction, meaning user data is stored in the United States and subject to U.S. data laws, including the CLOUD Act and FISA 702. The pricing model for Webex typically involves subscription plans, which vary based on the number of users and features required.

Why You Need a GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Webex

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

CLOUD Act Exposure

US authorities can access your data stored by Webex, 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 Webex

European services with full GDPR compliance and EU data residency

Livestorm logo

Livestorm

🇫🇷

by Livestorm

Experience the all-in-one video engagement platform to create and manage your virtual meetings, video conferencing, webinars, virtual events, and screen sharing.

GDPR CompliantISO 27001EU-BasedEU-hosted
freemiumMigration:●●●1-2 days

Why switch?

  • Livestorm offers customizable registration forms for better lead capture.
  • Real-time analytics dashboard provides insights on attendee engagement.
  • GDPR compliance ensures data handling aligns with EU regulations.

Consider

  • Migrating data from Webex to Livestorm may require significant effort.
  • Livestorm lacks integrated team messaging features found in Webex.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Livestorm
Whereby logo

Whereby

🇳🇴

by Whereby

Host quick instant meetings or embed video calls into your platform with Whereby’s video conferencing API and SDK.

ISO 27001EU-Based
freemiumMigration:●●●1 day

Why switch?

  • ISO 27001 certified security ensures high data protection standards.
  • HIPAA compliance allows safe use in healthcare settings.
  • GDPR compliance guarantees strict data handling within EU regulations.

Consider

  • Webex's advanced AI insights not available in Whereby.
  • Limited webinar hosting features compared to Webex's capabilities.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Whereby

Quick GDPR Compliance Comparison

ServiceHQ LocationGDPR NativeEU Data CentersCLOUD Act FreePricing
🇺🇸Webex
United StatesNoPartialNo-
🇫🇷LivestormFRYesYesYesfreemium
🇳🇴WherebyNOYesYesYesfreemium

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Webex GDPR compliant?

Webex is a US-based service operated by Cisco. 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 Webex?

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 Webex?

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

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

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

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

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Migration Resources

Last updated: January 26, 2026