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GDPR Compliance Risk

1Password is a US-based service subject to the CLOUD Act. EU organizations using this service risk non-compliance with GDPR data transfer requirements.

1Password logo

GDPR-Compliant Alternative to 1Password

🇺🇸1Password · US-based · Subject to CLOUD Act

1Password is a password management tool designed to help users securely store and manage their passwords and sensitive information. It offers end-to-end encryption to protect user data and provides a password generator with customizable rules to create strong, unique passwords. The product includes features such as Travel Mode for secure access while traveling, secure document storage, and biometric login options for enhanced security. 1Password also supports team sharing with access controls, allowing organizations to manage password access among team members. It integrates with various third-party applications and offers a browser extension for autofill capabilities. The target audience includes individuals, families, and businesses seeking to manage their passwords and sensitive data efficiently. It's important to note that 1Password is a US-based service, and user data is stored in the United States, making it subject to US data laws such as the CLOUD Act and FISA 702. The pricing model typically involves a subscription fee, with different plans available for personal, family, and business use.

Why You Need a GDPR-Compliant Alternative to 1Password

Since the landmark Schrems II ruling in 2020, transferring personal data to US-based services like 1Password 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 password managers is the most straightforward solution. Below are the best GDPR-compliant alternatives to 1Password, all headquartered in Europe with data stored in EU data centers.

CLOUD Act Exposure

US authorities can access your data stored by 1Password, 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 1Password

European services with full GDPR compliance and EU data residency

Proton Pass logo

Proton Pass

🇨🇭

by Proton Pass

Store, share and sync passwords, passkeys, email aliases, and more, on any device, with our open-source, free password manager. No trials, just free forever.

EU-BasedOpen SourceGDPR CompliantSelf-HostableSwiss hosted
freeMigration:●●●30-60 minutes

Why switch?

  • Open-source code ensures transparency and trust.
  • Email aliases protect your identity when signing up.
  • GDPR compliance guarantees strict data protection.

Consider

  • Migration from 1Password may require manual steps.
  • Lacks 1Password's Travel mode for secure access.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Proton Pass
KeePassXC logo

KeePassXC

🇪🇺

by KeePassXC

KeePassXC is a robust password manager designed to securely store and manage your passwords across multiple platforms. As an open-source tool, it offers transparency and adaptability, allowing users to inspect and modify the source code to suit their needs. KeePassXC supports cross-platform compatibility, making it accessible on Windows, macOS, and Linux. Key features include browser integration for seamless login experiences, a powerful password generator to create strong, unique passwords, and auto-fill functionality to streamline online interactions. The software also supports two-factor authentication and offers various database encryption options to enhance security. KeePassXC is ideal for individuals and organizations seeking a reliable password management solution that prioritizes privacy and security. With GDPR compliance and data hosting within the EU, users can trust that their data is handled with care and sovereignty. KeePassXC is free to use, making it an accessible choice for anyone looking to improve their digital security without incurring additional costs.

Open SourceGDPR CompliantEU-hostedSelf-Hostable
freeMigration:●●●30-60 minutes

Why switch?

  • Open source allows code audits for security assurance.
  • GDPR compliance ensures EU data protection standards.
  • Self-hostable option for full data control.

Consider

  • Migration requires manual data export/import.
  • Lacks 1Password's Travel Mode feature.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit KeePassXC
Passbolt logo

Passbolt

🇱🇺

by Passbolt

Manage and share passwords securely with Passbolt. Open source, audited and built for teams that need collaboration, compliance and control.

SOC 2EU-BasedISO 27001SOC 2 Type IIGDPR CompliantOpen SourceSelf-Hostable
freemiumMigration:●●●1-2 hours

Why switch?

  • Open source codebase allows for community-driven security audits.
  • GDPR compliance ensures data handling meets EU privacy regulations.
  • Self-hosted option provides control over your data and server location.

Consider

  • Migration from 1Password may require manual data export and import.
  • Passbolt lacks some features like biometric login and secure document storage.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Passbolt
NordPass logo

NordPass

🇱🇹

by NordPass

NordPass is a password management tool developed by a European company, NordSec. It securely stores and organizes your passwords, generates strong passwords, and fills in login forms automatically. With end-to-end encryption, NordPass ensures your sensitive information remains private and accessible across multiple devices.

EU-BasedISO 27001SOC 2 Type IISOC 2GDPR Compliant
Migration:●●●30-60 minutes

Why switch?

  • NordPass servers are located in the EU, enhancing data sovereignty.
  • Full GDPR compliance ensures stringent data protection standards.
  • NordPass offers end-to-end encryption on all plans for data security.

Consider

  • Missing features like Travel mode and team sharing with access controls.
  • Migration from 1Password may involve manual data transfer challenges.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit NordPass

Quick GDPR Compliance Comparison

ServiceHQ LocationGDPR NativeEU Data CentersCLOUD Act FreePricing
🇺🇸1Password
United StatesNoPartialNo-
🇨🇭Proton PassCHYesYesYesfree
🇪🇺KeePassXCEUYesYesYesfree
🇱🇺PassboltLUYesYesYesfreemium
🇱🇹NordPassLTYesYesYes-

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 1Password GDPR compliant?

1Password is a US-based service operated by 1Password. 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 1Password?

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 1Password?

The top GDPR-compliant alternatives to 1Password include Proton Pass, KeePassXC, Passbolt. These European services store your data in EU data centers and are fully subject to GDPR protections.

How do I migrate from 1Password to a GDPR-compliant alternative?

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

Since the Schrems II ruling (2020), EU organizations face significant legal risk when using US cloud services like 1Password. 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 Password Managers

GDPR Alternative to BitwardenGDPR Alternative to DashlaneGDPR Alternative to LastPass

Related Pages

Migration Resources

Some links on this page are affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you. This helps support our mission to promote European alternatives. Our recommendations are based on objective criteria.

Last updated: January 26, 2026