GDPR Compliance Risk
Microsoft Teams is a US-based service subject to the CLOUD Act. EU organizations using this service risk non-compliance with GDPR data transfer requirements.
Business communication platform combining chat, video meetings, file storage, and app integrations within the Microsoft 365 ecosystem.
Since the landmark Schrems II ruling in 2020, transferring personal data to US-based services like Microsoft Teams 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 video conferencing is the most straightforward solution. Below are the best GDPR-compliant alternatives to Microsoft Teams, all headquartered in Europe with data stored in EU data centers.
US authorities can access your data stored by Microsoft Teams, even if servers are located in Europe.
Non-compliant data transfers can result in fines up to 4% of annual global revenue under GDPR Article 83.
5 GDPR-compliant European alternatives available with full EU data residency.
European services with full GDPR compliance and EU data residency
by Element
Element is a secure and interoperable communications platform built on the Matrix open standard. It offers organisations control over their communications with features like end-to-end encrypted messaging, voice and video calls, and desktop collaboration. Element supports digital sovereignty by allowing self-hosted solutions and ensuring independence from vendor-locked systems.
by Wire
Wire is a secure communication platform designed for organizations, offering end-to-end encrypted messaging, calls, and file sharing. It provides flexible deployment options including cloud, on-premises, and hybrid solutions. Wire is trusted by enterprises and governments for its security, compliance, and digital sovereignty features.
by Whereby
Whereby provides secure and user-friendly video calling services designed for individuals, teams, and enterprises. It offers customizable and reliable WebRTC video calls with features like screen sharing, file sharing, and chat. The platform is European owned and emphasizes privacy and security, being GDPR and HIPAA compliant.
by Proton
Proton Meet is end-to-end encrypted video conferencing from Swiss privacy company Proton AG. Uses MLS encryption so even Proton cannot access your calls. Free for up to 50 participants. Also bundled with Proton Mail Plus, Proton Unlimited, Proton Duo, and Proton Family plans.
by Livestorm
Experience the all-in-one video engagement platform to create and manage your virtual meetings, video conferencing, webinars, virtual events, and screen sharing.
| Service | HQ Location | GDPR Native | EU Data Centers | CLOUD Act Free | Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
🇺🇸Microsoft Teams | United States | No | Partial | No | - |
| 🇬🇧Element | GB | Yes | Yes | Yes | freemium |
| 🇨🇭Wire | CH | Yes | Yes | Yes | freemium |
| 🇳🇴Whereby | NO | Yes | Yes | Yes | freemium |
| 🇨🇭Proton Meet | CH | Yes | Yes | Yes | freemium |
| 🇫🇷Livestorm | FR | Yes | Yes | Yes | freemium |
Microsoft Teams is a US-based service operated by Microsoft. 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.
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.
The top GDPR-compliant alternatives to Microsoft Teams include Element, Wire, Whereby. These European services store your data in EU data centers and are fully subject to GDPR protections.
Most migrations involve three steps: (1) Export your data from Microsoft Teams 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.
Since the Schrems II ruling (2020), EU organizations face significant legal risk when using US cloud services like Microsoft Teams. 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.
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
