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GDPR Compliance Risk

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

Bing logo

GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Bing

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ธMicrosoft ยท US-based ยท Subject to CLOUD Act

Bing is a search engine developed by Microsoft, offering users a platform to search for information across the internet. It provides various features such as image search with visual similarity, allowing users to find images related to their queries. Bing also integrates with Microsoft Office tools, enhancing productivity for users who utilize these applications. The search engine includes a rewards program, where users can earn points for their searches, which can be redeemed for various benefits. Additionally, Bing offers real-time news updates, local business listings with reviews, and voice search capabilities. Advanced search filters and translation services for multiple languages are also available, catering to a diverse audience. Bing primarily targets users who require a comprehensive search tool with additional functionalities. It is important to note that Bing is a US-based product, and user data is stored in the United States under US jurisdiction, subject to laws such as the CLOUD Act and FISA 702. Bing is available for free, with revenue generated through advertising.

Why You Need a GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Bing

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

CLOUD Act Exposure

US authorities can access your data stored by Bing, 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

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

4 GDPR-Compliant Alternatives to Bing

European services with full GDPR compliance and EU data residency

Ecosia logo

Ecosia

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช

by Ecosia

Ecosia is a European search engine that transforms your web searches into environmental action. By using Ecosia, users contribute to global reforestation efforts, as the company allocates its ad revenue to plant trees worldwide. Ecosia stands out with its commitment to privacy, utilizing EU-hosted data centers and adhering to GDPR standards, ensuring your data is handled with the utmost care and transparency. The search engine is designed for environmentally conscious individuals and organizations seeking a privacy-friendly alternative to mainstream search engines. Ecosiaโ€™s operations are carbon-neutral, further emphasizing its dedication to sustainability. The platform provides transparent financial reports, allowing users to see exactly how their searches contribute to environmental projects. Ecosia is free to use, with its revenue model based on ad clicks, which directly fund tree planting initiatives. This makes it an ideal choice for users who prioritize both privacy and environmental impact in their digital activities.

EU-hostedEU-BasedGDPR CompliantB CorpSelf-HostableCarbon Neutral
freeMigration:โ—โ—โ—30-60 minutes

Why switch?

  • Ecosia plants trees with search revenue.
  • GDPR compliant, ensuring EU data privacy.
  • Carbon-neutral operations reduce footprint.

Consider

  • No rewards program like Bing offers.
  • Lacks integrated Microsoft Office tools.
Qwant logo

Qwant

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท

by Qwant

Qwant is a French search engine that advertises privacy by not storing or selling any data about you. They use the Bing search index mixed with their own index, and therefore aren't reliant on Google. They also provide a special search engine for kids.

EU-BasedGDPR CompliantEU-hosted
freeMigration:โ—โ—โ—1-2 hours

Why switch?

  • Qwant doesn't store user search data.
  • Qwant is fully GDPR compliant.
  • Qwant servers are hosted in Europe.

Consider

  • Qwant lacks integrated Microsoft Office tools.
  • No rewards program for Qwant searches.
Mojeek logo

Mojeek

๐ŸŒ

by Mojeek

Mojeek is a search engine based in the United Kingdom, offering users a unique browsing experience by operating its own independent search index. Unlike many other search engines that rely on third-party data, Mojeek provides results from its proprietary index, ensuring a distinct and unbiased search experience. This makes it particularly appealing to users who value transparency and independence in their search results. Key features of Mojeek include its commitment to privacy and security, as it is fully EU-hosted and compliant with GDPR regulations. This ensures that user data is protected under stringent European privacy laws, offering peace of mind to those concerned about data sovereignty and privacy. Mojeek's search engine is ideal for privacy-conscious individuals, researchers, and businesses that require reliable and unbiased search results. While Mojeek does not currently operate on a subscription model, it is accessible to all users without charge, making it a cost-effective choice for those seeking a reliable search engine without the need for a financial commitment. By prioritizing user privacy and maintaining a robust, independent search index, Mojeek stands out as a trustworthy option for users across Europe and beyond.

EU-hostedGDPR CompliantGreen Hosting
freeMigration:โ—โ—โ—1-2 hours

Why switch?

  • GDPR compliant for enhanced data privacy
  • Green hosting reduces carbon footprint
  • Independent search index for unbiased results

Consider

  • No image search with visual similarity
  • Lacks integration with Microsoft Office tools
Startpage logo

Startpage

๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡ฑ

by Startpage

Search and browse the internet without being tracked or targeted. Startpage is the world's most private search engine. Use Startpage to protect your personal data.

EU-BasedGDPR Compliant
freeMigration:โ—โ—โ—30-60 minutes

Why switch?

  • No user tracking ensures privacy compliance
  • GDPR compliance with EU-based servers
  • HTTPS encryption secures all search queries

Consider

  • No rewards program like Bing's
  • Lacks integrated Microsoft Office tools

Quick GDPR Compliance Comparison

ServiceHQ LocationGDPR NativeEU Data CentersCLOUD Act FreePricing
๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ธBing
United StatesNoPartialNo-
๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ชEcosiaDEYesYesYesfree
๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ทQwantFRYesYesYesfree
๐ŸŒMojeekGBYesYesYesfree
๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡ฑStartpageNLYesYesYesfree

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bing GDPR compliant?

Bing 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 Bing?

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 Bing?

The top GDPR-compliant alternatives to Bing include Ecosia, Qwant, Mojeek. These European services store your data in EU data centers and are fully subject to GDPR protections.

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

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

Since the Schrems II ruling (2020), EU organizations face significant legal risk when using US cloud services like Bing. 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 Search Engines

Last updated: January 26, 2026