Artificial intelligence, emails and GDPR: how to stay compliant

Mar 12, 2025

Artificial intelligence is now the talk of the town in marketing events and across the favorite social media channels of communication professionals. Email professionals are no exception. Email automation, email writing, saving time on campaign creation...

A fascinating technological advancement that raises crucial questions regarding data protection and GDPR compliance. What rules should be followed? How can innovation and legal frameworks be reconciled? Let's break it down.

Summary

The regulatory framework of GDPR

The General Data Protection Regulation, enacted in 2018, aims to protect European citizens from the misuse of their personal data. Any company using artificial intelligence to send emails must adhere to key principles: transparency, consent, and security. Organizations must clearly inform users about data collection and usage.
Be mindful of the information you provide to AI systems you use, those used by your providers and partners, and what you grant access to for AI to automate your content. Let's dive into the details.

Mindbaz uses a French artificial intelligence system that users can leverage directly within the campaign creation interface.

Data collection is at the core of GDPR. Before sending an AI-generated email, explicit user consent is mandatory. Here are the key requirements:

  • Inform users about AI usage in email management.
  • Obtain clear and specific consent before sending any emails.
  • Offer users the option to unsubscribe easily at any time.

🔗Discover five ways to collect email addresses to grow your database.

Data processing and confidentiality

Data processing through artificial intelligence must ensure optimal confidentiality. Businesses must limit data access to authorized personnel only and ensure that information is not retained longer than necessary.

🔗Additionally: Five legal obligations for professionals sending marketing emails

ObligationDescription
Data minimizationCollect only the necessary information.
TransparencyInform users about data usage.
Limited retentionDelete data once it is no longer needed.


Cybersecurity and AI-related risks

Using artificial intelligence to send emails involves cybersecurity risks. A breach could expose sensitive data and result in significant penalties. Companies must:

  • Implement robust security measures (encryption, strong authentication).
  • Continuously monitor suspicious activities.
  • Train employees on security best practices.

Best practices for compliance

To comply with GDPR while leveraging artificial intelligence in email campaigns, follow these recommendations:

  • Use GDPR-compliant solutions like Mindbaz, ensuring advanced data protection.
  • Personalize emails without storing sensitive information.
  • Regularly update privacy policies.

In short: Artificial intelligence and emails - what does GDPR say?

  • GDPR regulates the use of artificial intelligence in email campaigns to protect user data.
  • Companies must uphold transparency, consent, and security principles when handling data.
  • Explicit user consent is mandatory before collecting and using data.
  • Data should be minimized, processed confidentially, and retained for a limited time.
  • Cybersecurity risks should be mitigated with robust protection measures.
  • Best practices include using GDPR-compliant solutions like Mindbaz, personalizing emails without storing sensitive data, and regularly updating privacy policies.