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GDPR Compliance Risk

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

Microsoft Teams logo

GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Microsoft Teams

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

Microsoft Teams is a communication and collaboration platform developed by Microsoft, designed to facilitate teamwork and streamline communication within organizations. It offers a range of features including integrated Office 365 applications, customizable team channels, and built-in video conferencing capabilities. Users can collaborate in real-time on documents and manage tasks through Planner integration. Microsoft Teams also supports third-party app integrations, allowing users to tailor the platform to their specific needs. Additionally, it provides meeting recording and transcription features, as well as end-to-end encryption for calls. The platform primarily serves businesses and educational institutions looking to enhance their internal communication and collaboration efforts. It is important to note that Microsoft Teams is a US-based product, and user data is stored in the United States, subject to US data laws such as the CLOUD Act and FISA 702. Microsoft Teams operates on a subscription-based pricing model, with various plans available depending on the level of functionality and number of users required.

Why You Need a GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Microsoft Teams

Since the landmark Schrems II ruling in 2020, transferring personal data to US-based services like Microsoft Teams 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 Microsoft Teams, all headquartered in Europe with data stored in EU data centers.

CLOUD Act Exposure

US authorities can access your data stored by Microsoft Teams, 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 Microsoft Teams

European services with full GDPR compliance and EU data residency

Element logo

Element

🌍

by Element

Element is a Matrix-based end-to-end encrypted messenger and secure collaboration app. It’s decentralised for digital sovereign self-hosting, or through a hosting service such as Element Matrix Services. Element operates on the open Matrix network to provide interoperability and easy connections.

Open SourceSelf-HostableISO 27001EU-hostedGDPR Compliant
freemiumMigration:â—Źâ—Źâ—ŹSeveral days for data export and setup

Why switch?

  • Matrix protocol allows interoperability with other platforms.
  • Self-hosting supports complete data control and privacy.
  • GDPR compliance ensures data protection in the EU.

Consider

  • Migration from Teams may disrupt workflows temporarily.
  • Element lacks integrated Office 365 app support.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Element
Wire logo

Wire

🇨🇭

by Wire

Collaborate without compromise with Wire, the trusted platform for millions worldwide. Stay in control with end-to-end encryption that's invisible, flexible collaboration, and intuitive user interface. Join now for free and boost your productivity.

EU-BasedGDPR CompliantOpen SourceSelf-HostableSwiss hosted
freemiumMigration:â—Źâ—Źâ—ŹSeveral days for data export and setup

Why switch?

  • GDPR compliance ensures EU data protection standards.
  • End-to-end encryption for all communications.
  • Open source allows for code transparency.

Consider

  • Migration from Teams may disrupt workflows.
  • Learning curve for users new to Wire.
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Visit Wire
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:â—Źâ—Źâ—ŹSeveral days for data export and setup

Why switch?

  • ISO 27001 certified, ensuring high security standards for data.
  • No downloads needed for participants, simplifying access to meetings.
  • Fully GDPR compliant, ensuring adherence to EU data protection laws.

Consider

  • Missing integrated Office 365 apps limits document collaboration.
  • Learning curve for users accustomed to Teams' interface.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Whereby

Quick GDPR Compliance Comparison

ServiceHQ LocationGDPR NativeEU Data CentersCLOUD Act FreePricing
🇺🇸Microsoft Teams
United StatesNoPartialNo-
🌍ElementGBYesYesYesfreemium
🇨🇭WireCHYesYesYesfreemium
🇳🇴WherebyNOYesYesYesfreemium

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Microsoft Teams GDPR compliant?

Microsoft Teams is a US-based service operated by Microsoft. 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 Microsoft Teams?

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 Microsoft Teams?

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

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

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

Since the Schrems II ruling (2020), EU organizations face significant legal risk when using US cloud services like Microsoft Teams. 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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Related Pages

Migration Resources

Last updated: January 26, 2026