Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA) vs DPIA: Template and When Each Is Required

When Each Is Required (High Level)

• GDPR DPIA: Art 35 — high risk, including systematic large-scale monitoring, special-category data at scale, and other EDPB guideline triggers
• Quebec Law 25: privacy impact assessment duties for certain public bodies and high-risk projects (confirm current CAI guidance)
• US state laws: several require data protection / privacy assessments for high-risk processing (e.g. targeted advertising, profiling) — check each statute

Template Outline

1. Project name, owner, go-live date
2. Processing description (purposes, categories, volumes, systems)
3. Roles (controller / processor / joint)
4. Lawful basis / necessity (where applicable)
5. Data flows and recipients (including cross-border)
6. Risks to individuals (likelihood × severity)
7. Mitigations and residual risk
8. Consultation (DPO, individuals, SA where required)
9. Decision / sign-off and review date

How CyberSilo Helps

CSA stores PIA/DPIA workflows, owners, and linked inventory rows so assessments stay attached to live systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is every PIA a DPIA?

No. DPIA is the GDPR Art 35 assessment. A PIA may be broader or required under other laws with different triggers.

Who signs off?

Typically the privacy lead / DPO advises; business owner accepts residual risk. Record the decision.

How often to refresh?

On material change to purposes, tech, or recipients — and on a scheduled review cadence.

Related Privacy Resources

Data mapping · GDPR hub · CSA Privacy