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Boring DSAR

GDPR SAR Software: Tools for Handling Subject Access Requests

What to look for in GDPR SAR/DSAR software. Data discovery, redaction, deadline tracking, and response management for small businesses.

Last updated: 2026-02-08

GDPR SARs Have Extra Complexity

Subject access requests under GDPR are more demanding than US state law equivalents. The 30-day deadline is shorter, the scope of data is broader, and you must handle third-party data redaction. Here is what your software needs to support.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for guidance specific to your business.

GDPR-Specific Features to Look For

Data Discovery Across Systems

GDPR access requests cover all personal data — not just what was collected directly from the requester. Your tool needs to search:

  • Databases and applications
  • Email (messages containing the requester's data)
  • CRM and marketing platforms
  • Customer support and ticketing systems
  • Cloud storage and file shares
  • Analytics platforms (where individually identifiable)

Third-Party Data Redaction

GDPR access responses must not disclose personal data of third parties without their consent. This means you need to redact names, emails, and identifiers of other people from documents before sending.

Look for tools with built-in redaction or easy integration with redaction tools.

Multi-Language Support

If you serve EU customers across multiple member states, requests may come in different languages. Some tools support multilingual templates and routing.

Deadline Tracking (30 Days)

GDPR's 30-day deadline is shorter than US state laws (45 days). Your tool should auto-calculate deadlines, support extensions (up to 2 additional months for complex requests), and require documentation of extension reasons.

Response Format

GDPR requires responses in a "commonly used electronic form" if the request was made electronically. Your tool should support structured data export (CSV, JSON, or PDF).

What You Need vs What Gets Sold

You need: Data discovery, redaction, deadline tracking, response templates, and audit trails.

You probably do not need (for DSAR purposes): Consent management, cookie scanning, DPIA tools, records of processing. These are governance tools, not DSAR operations tools.

Small Business Options

For fewer than 50 requests per year, a spreadsheet and email templates work. See our DSAR automation guide.

For higher volumes, look for tools that offer:

  • Per-request or per-user pricing (not enterprise flat-rate)
  • Pre-built connectors for common platforms (Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Mailchimp, HubSpot)
  • Template libraries
  • Audit trails that satisfy supervisory authority inquiries

For a full comparison, see our DSAR software comparison.

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