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Law 18-07 Personal Data

Algeria

Algeria

2018

Privacy

Overview

Law No. 18-07, enacted in 2018, is Algeria's primary legislation for personal data protection. It sets rules for how public and private entities collect, process, store, and transfer personal data, while granting individuals rights such as access, correction, and objection.
The law requires informed consent, data accuracy, and security safeguards. Cross-border data transfers are restricted unless the recipient country provides adequate protection. While it mandates the creation of a national data protection authority, this body remains non-operational as of 2025 due to implementation delays.
The law applies to telecommunication providers, financial institutions, healthcare organizations, e-commerce platforms, government agencies, and other entities handling personal data in Algeria.

Key Obligations

  • Obtain informed consent from individuals before collecting or processing their personal data
  • Ensure data accuracy, confidentiality, and security
  • Notify the national authority before processing sensitive or large-scale data
  • Restrict cross-border data transfers to jurisdictions with adequate protection
  • Appoint a Data Protection Officer (DPO) when handling sensitive data or large volumes
  • Allow individuals to access, correct, or delete their personal data
  • Maintain compliance documentation and data processing logs

FAQ

Is Algeria's data protection authority active yet?

No. Although Law 18-07 mandates the creation of a national authority, it has not been operationalized due to the absence of secondary regulations.

Can Algerian companies transfer data abroad?

Yes, but only if the receiving country ensures an adequate level of data protection.

Is consent always required for data processing?

Yes. Consent must be clear, informed, and given voluntarily, except in cases where exemptions apply.

What penalties exist for non-compliance?

The law outlines administrative and criminal penalties, though enforcement mechanisms are limited until full regulatory infrastructure is established.