Ensuring Compliance: Data Privacy Audits Under Global Privacy Regulations

This study evaluates the effectiveness of data privacy audits in ensuring compliance with global privacy laws across diverse organizational contexts. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, combining quantitative survey data from 200 companies across industries with qualitative case studies from multinational corporations. The research design included statistical analysis, case study evaluation, and endogeneity checks to ensure robustness. The findings demonstrate that data privacy audits significantly enhance compliance with international privacy regulations, although their impact varies based on organizational size and jurisdictional complexity. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) face challenges in conducting audits due to limited resources, whereas multinational corporations struggle with regulatory fragmentation across jurisdictions. The use of standardized audit templates and scalable compliance tools emerged as key facilitators of effective audit outcomes. Data privacy audits are vital instruments for enforcing regulatory compliance globally. However, tailored strategies are needed to accommodate the specific needs of different organizational types and legal environments. The study recommends: (i) adaptable audit frameworks for diverse regulations, (ii) AI tools to automate audits, and (iii) a culture of accountability and proactive privacy management. These insights aid organizations, regulators, and policymakers in enhancing global data privacy compliance.