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13 of 13|Complete DPDPA Act
video 15 min•Key Definitions

Significant Data Fiduciary

The "big tech" classification with higher obligations.

🎯 Learning Objectives

  • ▸ Understand what makes an SDF
  • ▸ Learn the enhanced obligations of SDFs

The Criteria

Section 10 allows the government to notify an SDF based on:

  • • Volume and sensitivity of data processed.
  • • Risk to Data Principals.
  • • Potential impact on sovereignty and integrity of India.
  • • Risk to electoral democracy.
  • • Security of the State.
  • • Public order.

Once notified, an SDF must appoint a Data Protection Officer (DPO) who resides in India, appoint an independent data auditor, and conduct Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs).

📖 Glossary

SDF
Significant Data Fiduciary, an entity designated by the government with enhanced compliance obligations.
DPO
Data Protection Officer, an officer responsible for compliance with the DPDPA.

🔑 Key Takeaways

  • SDFs are notified by the government.
  • They must appoint a DPO based in India.
  • They must undergo periodic data audits.

📚 Further Reading

  • DPDPA Section 10 — Government of India (2023)
Shilpi Kulshrestha
Course Author

Shilpi Kulshrestha

Shilpi is a corporate lawyer with over a decade of experience in data protection, company law, and regulatory compliance. She has advised 50+ startups and enterprises on DPDPA readiness, privacy gover...