The Hidden Truth About US Data Privacy
Why your data isn't safe with US providers — even with 'EU data centers'. A complete analysis of Safe Harbor, Privacy Shield, and current surveillance laws.
The Hidden Truth About US Data Privacy Laws
Why your data isn't safe with US providers - even with 'EU data centers'
A History of Failed Privacy Agreements
2000-2015: Safe Harbor Agreement
The first attempt to legitimize US-EU data transfers, claiming US companies provided 'adequate' data protection.
2016-2020: EU-US Privacy Shield
A rushed replacement for Safe Harbor with minor improvements, still allowing US intelligence agency access.
2023-Present: Executive Order & Data Privacy Framework
Biden's Executive Order 14086 promised new safeguards, but Trump's administration rewrote it with a critical addition: it can be modified in secret.
The Core Issue: US Surveillance Laws
US law requires American companies to provide government access to data - regardless of where it's stored:
- FISA 702 allows warrantless surveillance of non-US persons' data
- The CLOUD Act forces US companies to hand over data stored anywhere in the world
- National Security Letters come with gag orders - companies can't even tell you your data was accessed
Why US Providers Can't Protect Your Data
CLOUD Act (2018)
US companies must provide data to US authorities even if stored in EU data centers. 'EU data boundaries' are meaningless marketing.
FISA Section 702
Allows mass surveillance of non-US persons. Your business data, customer information, and communications are all accessible.
Worthless Contracts
Standard Contractual Clauses are void when they conflict with US surveillance laws. Try getting a US provider to accept GDPR liability - they won't.
No Real Liability
Only 1.3% of GDPR complaints in Europe result in fines. US providers know the risk is minimal and their contracts reflect this.
The meetergo Difference: True Data Sovereignty
As a European company with European servers, we're not subject to US surveillance laws:
- 100% European-owned and operated - no US parent company or investors
- Data stored exclusively in Europe - protected by European privacy laws
- Not subject to CLOUD Act, FISA, or US National Security Letters
- We'll sign contracts with real GDPR liability - because we can actually guarantee compliance