Skip to main content
BuiltInEu

GDPR Compliance Risk

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

Safari logo

GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Safari

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

Safari is a web browser developed by Apple, designed to offer users a streamlined and efficient browsing experience. It provides a range of features aimed at enhancing user privacy and security, such as Intelligent Tracking Prevention and a Privacy Report dashboard. Safari includes a built-in password manager to help users securely store and manage their passwords. The browser's customizable start page and support for third-party extensions allow users to tailor their browsing experience to their preferences. Safari is also known for its energy-efficient browsing, which can be beneficial for users on portable devices. Additionally, the Tab Groups organization feature helps users manage multiple tabs efficiently, and the Reader mode provides a distraction-free reading experience. Safari is primarily used by individuals within the Apple ecosystem, including users of macOS and iOS devices. It is important to note that Safari 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. Safari is available for free to users of Apple devices.

Why You Need a GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Safari

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

CLOUD Act Exposure

US authorities can access your data stored by Safari, 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 Safari

European services with full GDPR compliance and EU data residency

Vivaldi logo

Vivaldi

🇳🇴

by Vivaldi

It’s a web browser. But fun. It comes with a bunch of clever features built-in. It’s super flexible and does not track you. Get the Vivaldi browser for desktop, mobile, and your car!

EU-BasedOpen SourceGDPR Compliant
freeMigration:●●●30-60 minutes

Why switch?

  • Vivaldi's ad blocker reduces page load times.
  • Tab stacking in Vivaldi enhances tab organization.
  • Vivaldi's web panels offer quick site access.

Consider

  • Safari's energy efficiency may be superior.
  • Learning Vivaldi's features requires time.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Vivaldi
LibreWolf logo

LibreWolf

🇪🇺

by LibreWolf

LibreWolf is a privacy-focused web browser designed to offer users a secure and private browsing experience. Built on open-source principles and driven by a dedicated community, LibreWolf prioritizes user privacy with enhanced tracking protection, automatic cookie blocking, and DNS over HTTPS support. It is tailored for individuals who value their online privacy and seek to minimize their digital footprint. Key features include fingerprinting protection, customizable security settings, and the integration of privacy-focused search engines. LibreWolf stands out by not collecting telemetry data, ensuring that user information remains private and secure. Hosted in Europe, it complies with EU data protection regulations, offering users the assurance of GDPR compliance and data sovereignty. While LibreWolf is free to use, its community-driven nature encourages contributions and support from its user base. Ideal for privacy-conscious users, LibreWolf provides a robust alternative to mainstream browsers, focusing on transparency and user control.

GDPR CompliantOpen SourceEU-hosted
freeMigration:●●●30-60 minutes

Why switch?

  • LibreWolf blocks all third-party cookies by default, enhancing privacy.
  • No telemetry data collection in LibreWolf ensures user data remains private.
  • DNS over HTTPS in LibreWolf encrypts DNS queries for better security.

Consider

  • Safari's built-in password manager is more integrated and user-friendly.
  • Switching requires learning new settings and features in LibreWolf.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit LibreWolf

Quick GDPR Compliance Comparison

ServiceHQ LocationGDPR NativeEU Data CentersCLOUD Act FreePricing
🇺🇸Safari
United StatesNoPartialNo-
🇳🇴VivaldiNOYesYesYesfree
🇪🇺LibreWolfEUYesYesYesfree

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Safari GDPR compliant?

Safari is a US-based service operated by Apple. 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 Safari?

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 Safari?

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

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

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

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

GDPR Alternative to FirefoxGDPR Alternative to BraveGDPR Alternative to EdgeGDPR Alternative to Chrome

Related Pages

Migration Resources

Last updated: January 26, 2026