Step 1. This stage includes the elaboration of general functional and technical requirements, where RPAiX:

• Identify which personal data (names, bank account details, etc.) is needed. The new software will need to collect, process, and transfer the data.
• This tool helps you model consent for processing data subjects’ information.
• Defines who can access personal data.
• Helps decide on data retention period.

Step 2. Secure software architecture design and planning security features

At this stage RPAiX team will:

• Ensure resilient software architecture designs

Best Practice: RPAiX’s solution architects often work with a GDPR consultant, a business analyst, and a software architect to create the right level of software security for clients.

• Plans data archival/erasure mechanism, including automated deletion upon demand.
• Data flow diagrams are created.
• This logging architecture allows data access and data modification tracking.
• Plans encryption for in-transit and at-rest data
• Secure technology stacks to help with compliance

Step 3. GDPR-compliant UX and UI design

Here are some examples of GUI elements that support compliance:

• Consent forms that are precise and easy to understand.

The best practice: RPAiX suggests that a form be complemented with a description of the data subjects’ rights and how they can withdraw their consent.

• A privacy policy with a quick scan that describes data processing methods and data storage periods, as well as third parties who are able to access the data.

Step 4. Secure software development

At this stage RPAiX’s developers:

• Follow the OWASP guidelines for secure coding when creating front and back-end software.

Note – RPAiX documents each development step thoroughly and performs regular unit testing.

• Implement data encryption, pseudonymization, or anonymization.
• We also conduct code reviews regularly to identify and remediate vulnerabilities.

Best practice: RPAiX facilitates security testing automation by adding dynamic application security tests (DAST) and static application security testing to the CI/CD pipeline. This allows for early detection of code vulnerabilities.

Step 5. Software penetration testing

• Choose the appropriate penetration testing approach (black, gray, or white) and execute the test.
• Report on vulnerabilities discovered.
• This document contains recommendations and preventive measures.

RPAiX tip: After any significant change to software or IT infrastructure, it’s recommended that penetration testing be performed.

Step 6. GDPR-compliant software deployment

Our team continues with:

• Final review of security controls in IT infrastructure and software to ensure compliance with GDPR standards.
• Prepare an incident response plan.
• Provide the documentation required (description of personal data used in the system and lifecycle, all parties who have access to personal data and the basis for collecting it, etc. ).