Create user-friendly rights request flows

Create User-Friendly Rights Request Flows

Both GDPR and CPRA give individuals strong rights over their personal data. To comply, businesses must create clear, accessible ways for users to exercise these rights, from requesting access to deleting information. A user-friendly flow ensures compliance while reducing friction and support costs.

Rights Covered

• GDPR: Access, rectification, erasure, restriction, portability, objection, automated decision-making.

• CPRA: Know, delete, correct, opt-out of selling/sharing, limit use of sensitive data, non-discrimination.

Designing Request Workflows

• Provide multiple entry points (privacy page, account settings, footer links).

• Use plain language (“Request my data” instead of legal jargon).

• Offer guided forms with drop-downs for specific requests.

• Provide confirmation emails and expected response timelines.

Identity Verification

• Require reasonable proof of identity to prevent abuse.

• For logged-in users: validate via session or MFA.

• For non-logged-in users: validate via email/SMS verification links.

Example: Account Deletion Flow

1. User clicks “Delete My Account” in settings.

2. System prompts confirmation and explains impact (loss of data, preferences, history).

3. Verification email sent to confirm identity.

4. Upon confirmation, deletion job runs and user receives a completion notice.

Implementing Request Flows in Practice

API endpoint for DSARs

POST /privacy/requests
{
  "type": "access",
  "userId": "12345"
}

Queue-based processing

def handle_request(request):
    if request.type == "access":
        export_user_data(request.userId)
    elif request.type == "delete":
        delete_user_data(request.userId)

Automated confirmation

Subject: Your Privacy Request Has Been Received

We’ve received your request to [access/delete/correct] your data. 
We will respond within the required timeframe under applicable law

Quick Rights Request Checklist

• Offer clear entry points for requests (links, settings, privacy page)

• Use plain language and guided forms

• Verify identity securely before processing requests

• Automate acknowledgments and track deadlines

• Log and document all completed requests

Conclusion

User-friendly rights request flows make compliance scalable. By giving individuals simple, secure ways to exercise their rights, companies meet legal obligations while reinforcing transparency and trust.