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GDPR Compliance Risk

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

Salesforce logo

GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Salesforce

🇺🇸Salesforce Inc. · US-based · Subject to CLOUD Act

Cloud-based CRM platform offering sales, service, marketing, and analytics solutions for businesses.

Why You Need a GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Salesforce

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

CLOUD Act Exposure

US authorities can access your data stored by Salesforce, 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 Salesforce

European services with full GDPR compliance and EU data residency

Teamleader logo

Teamleader

🇧🇪

by Teamleader NV

Belgian all-in-one work management platform combining CRM, project management, and invoicing for SMBs.

GDPR CompliantEU-Based
paidMigration:●●●

Why switch?

  • GDPR compliance ensures data protection for EU customers.
  • Time tracking feature aids in accurate billing and project management.
  • Invoicing capabilities simplify financial processes in one platform.

Consider

  • Migration from Salesforce may require significant data transfer efforts.
  • Limited customization options compared to Salesforce's extensive app marketplace.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Teamleader
SuperOffice logo

SuperOffice

🇳🇴

by SuperOffice AS

SuperOffice is a comprehensive customer relationship management (CRM) software designed to streamline sales, marketing, and customer service processes. It offers tools for managing contacts, tracking sales activities, automating marketing campaigns, and analyzing customer interactions to improve business efficiency and customer satisfaction.

GDPR CompliantEU-BasedISO 27001
paidMigration:●●●

Why switch?

  • GDPR compliance ensures data protection for EU customers.
  • EU data centers reduce latency for European users.
  • ISO 27001 certification guarantees high security standards.

Consider

  • Migration from Salesforce can be complex and time-consuming.
  • Limited app marketplace compared to Salesforce's extensive options.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit SuperOffice

Quick GDPR Compliance Comparison

ServiceHQ LocationGDPR NativeEU Data CentersCLOUD Act FreePricing
🇺🇸Salesforce
United StatesNoPartialNopaid
🇧🇪TeamleaderBEYesYesYespaid
🇳🇴SuperOfficeNOYesYesYespaid

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Salesforce GDPR compliant?

Salesforce is a US-based service operated by Salesforce Inc.. 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 Salesforce?

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 Salesforce?

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

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

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

Since the Schrems II ruling (2020), EU organizations face significant legal risk when using US cloud services like Salesforce. 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 CRM & Sales

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Related Pages

Migration Resources

Last updated: January 29, 2026