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GDPR Compliance Risk

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

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GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Rocket.Chat

🇺🇸Rocket.Chat · US-based · Subject to CLOUD Act

Centralize real-time messaging, voice, video, AI, and apps for secure, reliable and unified communication among internal and external stakeholders.

Why You Need a GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Rocket.Chat

Since the landmark Schrems II ruling in 2020, transferring personal data to US-based services like Rocket.Chat 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 Rocket.Chat, all headquartered in Europe with data stored in EU data centers.

CLOUD Act Exposure

US authorities can access your data stored by Rocket.Chat, 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

We are researching GDPR-compliant alternatives. Check back soon.

0 GDPR-Compliant Alternatives to Rocket.Chat

European services with full GDPR compliance and EU data residency

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Rocket.Chat GDPR compliant?

Rocket.Chat is a US-based service operated by Rocket.Chat. 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 Rocket.Chat?

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 Rocket.Chat?

We are currently researching GDPR-compliant alternatives to Rocket.Chat. Check back soon for our recommendations.

How do I migrate from Rocket.Chat to a GDPR-compliant alternative?

Most migrations involve three steps: (1) Export your data from Rocket.Chat 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 Rocket.Chat?

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

Last updated: January 30, 2026