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GDPR Compliance Risk

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

LinkedIn logo

GDPR-Compliant Alternative to LinkedIn

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

LinkedIn, a social network owned by Microsoft, is designed to facilitate professional networking and career development. It allows users to create detailed professional profiles, connect with colleagues, and explore job opportunities. Key features include job search and application tools, skill endorsements from connections, and networking through groups and events. The platform also offers a content sharing and publishing platform, InMail messaging for direct outreach, and company research and insights. Additionally, LinkedIn Learning provides courses and certifications to enhance professional skills. The platform primarily targets professionals, job seekers, recruiters, and businesses looking to expand their network and find talent. It's important to note that LinkedIn is a US-based service, and user data is stored in the United States under US jurisdiction, subject to laws such as the CLOUD Act and FISA 702. LinkedIn operates on a freemium model, offering basic services for free with premium features available through subscription plans.

Why You Need a GDPR-Compliant Alternative to LinkedIn

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

CLOUD Act Exposure

US authorities can access your data stored by LinkedIn, 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

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

2 GDPR-Compliant Alternatives to LinkedIn

European services with full GDPR compliance and EU data residency

Mastodon logo

Mastodon

🇪🇺

Mastodon is an open source federated microblogging service/social media platform. A federated social network is decentralized, similar to how email works. Since Mastodon is open source, anyone with enough technical know-how can create their own Mastodon server where users can register. A Mastodon server is comparable to the email provider in the email system. Mastodon servers can communicate with each other via a standardized and open protocol called ActivityPub. Thanks to this protocol it is possible that users from one Mastodon server can for example follow users from other server or like their content.

Open SourceSelf-HostableEU-hosted
freeMigration:●●●1-2 hours

Why switch?

  • Decentralized: No single point of control over user data.
  • GDPR compliant: Stronger data protection regulations in the EU.
  • Open-source: Community-driven development allows for transparency.

Consider

  • Migration pain: Moving connections and content from LinkedIn is difficult.
  • Missing job tools: Mastodon lacks LinkedIn's job search and application features.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Mastodon
PixelFed logo

PixelFed

🇪🇺

by PixelFed

Learn more about Pixelfed, the free and open-source decentralized photo sharing social media platform

Open SourceEU-hosted
freeMigration:●●●1 day

Why switch?

  • PixelFed is free to use, unlike LinkedIn's premium features.
  • PixelFed's servers are based in the EU, ensuring GDPR compliance.
  • Open-source nature allows community-driven improvements and transparency.

Consider

  • Missing job search tools and professional networking features.
  • Learning curve to adapt from LinkedIn's structured interface.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit PixelFed

Quick GDPR Compliance Comparison

ServiceHQ LocationGDPR NativeEU Data CentersCLOUD Act FreePricing
🇺🇸LinkedIn
United StatesNoPartialNo-
🇪🇺MastodonEUYesYesYesfree
🇪🇺PixelFedEUYesYesYesfree

Frequently Asked Questions

Is LinkedIn GDPR compliant?

LinkedIn 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 LinkedIn?

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 LinkedIn?

The top GDPR-compliant alternatives to LinkedIn include Mastodon, PixelFed. These European services store your data in EU data centers and are fully subject to GDPR protections.

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

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

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

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Migration Resources

Last updated: January 26, 2026