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GDPR Compliance Risk

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

TrustArc logo

GDPR-Compliant Alternative to TrustArc

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

TrustArc offers comprehensive privacy management solutions that help businesses comply with global regulations. Streamline data privacy processes, manage consent, and enhance consumer trust with its user-friendly platform.

Why You Need a GDPR-Compliant Alternative to TrustArc

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

CLOUD Act Exposure

US authorities can access your data stored by TrustArc, 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

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

3 GDPR-Compliant Alternatives to TrustArc

European services with full GDPR compliance and EU data residency

Usercentrics logo

Usercentrics

🇩🇪

by Usercentrics

Usercentrics is a European-based consent management platform designed to help businesses comply with data protection regulations like GDPR and CCPA. It provides tools for obtaining, managing, and documenting user consent for data processing activities, ensuring transparency and user privacy.

EU-BasedGDPR CompliantEU-hosted
Migration:●●●2-4 hours

Why switch?

  • Usercentrics is fully GDPR compliant, ensuring legal adherence in EU.
  • Data is stored on EU servers, enhancing data sovereignty and security.
  • Usercentrics offers optional end-to-end encryption for sensitive data.

Consider

  • Migration from TrustArc may require significant data transfer efforts.
  • Usercentrics may have a steeper learning curve for new users.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Usercentrics
Cookiebot logo

Cookiebot

🇩🇰

by Cookiebot

Cookiebot is a compliance solution developed by a European company that helps websites manage cookie consent in accordance with GDPR and ePrivacy regulations. It scans websites for cookies, provides users with clear consent options, and generates reports to ensure legal compliance. Ideal for businesses seeking to uphold privacy standards.

EU-BasedGDPR CompliantISO 27001ePrivacy
Migration:●●●2-4 hours

Why switch?

  • Cookiebot offers full GDPR compliance for EU users.
  • Data is processed on EU servers, enhancing local data protection.
  • Cookiebot provides detailed consent logs for auditing purposes.

Consider

  • Migrating data from TrustArc may require significant manual effort.
  • Cookiebot's user interface may have a learning curve for new users.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Cookiebot
Iubenda logo

Iubenda

🇮🇹

by Iubenda

Iubenda is a European company that provides legal compliance solutions for websites and apps. Their service generates privacy policies and terms of service tailored to your business needs, ensuring compliance with GDPR and other regulations. It simplifies legal documentation, making it accessible for users.

EU-BasedGDPR CompliantISO 27001ePrivacy
Migration:●●●2-4 hours

Why switch?

  • Iubenda is fully GDPR compliant, ensuring legal protection in the EU.
  • Iubenda's servers are based in the EU, which enhances data sovereignty.
  • Iubenda holds ISO 27001 certification, indicating strong security practices.

Consider

  • Migrating data from TrustArc to Iubenda can be complex and time-consuming.
  • Iubenda may lack specific TrustArc features, requiring adjustments in processes.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Iubenda

Quick GDPR Compliance Comparison

ServiceHQ LocationGDPR NativeEU Data CentersCLOUD Act FreePricing
🇺🇸TrustArc
United StatesNoPartialNo-
🇩🇪UsercentricsDEYesYesYes-
🇩🇰CookiebotDKYesYesYes-
🇮🇹IubendaITYesYesYes-

Frequently Asked Questions

Is TrustArc GDPR compliant?

TrustArc is a US-based service operated by TrustArc. 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 TrustArc?

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 TrustArc?

The top GDPR-compliant alternatives to TrustArc include Usercentrics, Cookiebot, Iubenda. These European services store your data in EU data centers and are fully subject to GDPR protections.

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

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

Since the Schrems II ruling (2020), EU organizations face significant legal risk when using US cloud services like TrustArc. 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 Cookie Consent

GDPR Alternative to OneTrust

Related Pages

Migration Resources

Last updated: February 6, 2026