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GDPR Compliance Risk

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

YouTube logo

GDPR-Compliant Alternative to YouTube

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

YouTube by Google is a leading video-sharing platform that allows users to upload, share, and discover videos across various categories. Access millions of user-generated and professional content anytime, anywhere.

Why You Need a GDPR-Compliant Alternative to YouTube

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

CLOUD Act Exposure

US authorities can access your data stored by YouTube, 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 YouTube

European services with full GDPR compliance and EU data residency

PeerTube logo

PeerTube

🇫🇷

by PeerTube

PeerTube is an open-source video hosting platform developed by Framasoft, a French organization. It allows users to create and share videos without relying on centralized services. Utilizing peer-to-peer technology, it reduces bandwidth costs and enhances privacy. Ideal for communities and organizations seeking decentralized video solutions.

EU-BasedOpen SourceSelf-HostableEU-hosted
Migration:●●●2-4 hours

Why switch?

  • PeerTube is fully GDPR compliant, ensuring EU data protection.
  • Open-source nature allows customization and community-driven features.
  • Self-hosting options let users control their data and server location.

Consider

  • Migration involves manual uploads; no direct transfer from YouTube.
  • Limited audience reach compared to YouTube's 2 billion users.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit PeerTube
Bunny Stream logo

Bunny Stream

🌍

by Bunny Stream

Bunny Stream is a reliable video streaming service developed by a European company. It offers efficient video delivery with adaptive streaming capabilities, ensuring optimal playback across various devices and internet speeds. The platform is designed for content creators and businesses seeking seamless video hosting and distribution solutions.

EU-Based
Migration:●●●2-4 hours

Why switch?

  • Bunny Stream servers are EU-based, ensuring data residency compliance.
  • Full GDPR compliance protects user data rights in the EU.
  • Optional end-to-end encryption enhances content security for users.

Consider

  • Migration from YouTube may result in lost subscribers and views.
  • Limited features compared to YouTube's extensive tools and analytics.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Bunny Stream

Quick GDPR Compliance Comparison

ServiceHQ LocationGDPR NativeEU Data CentersCLOUD Act FreePricing
🇺🇸YouTube
United StatesNoPartialNo-
🇫🇷PeerTubeFRYesYesYes-
🌍Bunny StreamSIYesYesYes-

Frequently Asked Questions

Is YouTube GDPR compliant?

YouTube is a US-based service operated by Google. 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 YouTube?

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 YouTube?

The top GDPR-compliant alternatives to YouTube include PeerTube, Bunny Stream. These European services store your data in EU data centers and are fully subject to GDPR protections.

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

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

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

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Related Pages

Migration Resources

Last updated: February 6, 2026