Google Maps vs Organic Maps: The Privacy Showdown
Explore the differences in data privacy between US-based Google Maps and Europe's Organic Maps. Discover which one truly prioritizes your security today.
Should You Switch to Organic Maps?
Gain privacy, open-source, and detailed offline maps
Lose real-time traffic and public transit info
Switch for privacy and offline use; stay for real-time features
At a Glance
US data laws
GDPR protected
Google Maps
free
Organic Maps
free
Privacy & Compliance Comparison
Critical data sovereignty factors at a glance
| Criteria | Google Maps | Organic Maps |
|---|---|---|
Server Location | Global, including US and EU | EU |
GDPR Compliance | Partial (SCCs) | Full |
Open Source | ||
E2E Encryption | Optional | Unknown |
Data Portability | Partial | Unknown |
CLOUD Act Notice
Google Maps is a US company and must comply with CLOUD Act data requests, even for data stored in EU data centers. Organic Maps is not subject to US jurisdiction.
Google Maps
🇺🇸Google (Alphabet)
Organic Maps
🇪🇺US Data Storage
Data subject to US CLOUD Act and may be accessed by US authorities
EU Data Protection
Data protected under GDPR with EU-only data residency
Certifications & Compliance
No certifications listed
Reasons to Switch
- ✓Organic Maps is fully GDPR compliant.
- ✓Detailed offline maps with no data charges.
- ✓Open-source code ensures transparency.
- ✓EU-hosted servers enhance data privacy.
Things to Consider
- !No real-time traffic updates available.
- !Lacks Street View and business listings.
- !Potential learning curve for new users.
Migration Overview
Depends on data size and complexity
Quick Steps
Create Organic Maps account and configure settings
Export and prepare data from Google Maps
Import data, test integrations, and migrate users
Note: Switching to Organic Maps may require users to adapt to a different interface and offline functionality.
Other alternatives to Google Maps
Ready to make the switch?
Start using Organic Maps today and take control of your data privacy.