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Compliance and security

What is a data processing agreement (DPA)?

A data processing agreement (DPA) is a contract between a data controller (your business) and a data processor (a vendor such as your CRM) that sets out what the processor may do with personal data, the security measures it must maintain, its sub-processors, breach notification, assistance with data subject requests and what happens to the data at the end of the contract. GDPR requires one; the DPDP Act expects equivalent contractual terms.

Updated 29 Aug 2026 · 1 min read

On this page
  1. Why it matters
  2. In VGraple CRM
  3. Related terms

COMPLIANCE AND SECURITY

Data processing agreement

A data processing agreement (DPA) is a contract between a data controller (your business) and a data processor (a vendor such as your CRM) that sets out what the processor may do with personal data, the security measures it must maintain, its sub-processors, breach notification, assistance with data subject requests and what happens to the data at the end of the contract. GDPR requires one; the DPDP Act expects equivalent contractual terms.

gdprdpdp actpii

Data processing agreement in one line

Why it matters

Without a DPA, using a cloud CRM for customer conversations is itself a compliance gap. Buyers in regulated sectors and larger companies ask for it in procurement, and it is the document that tells you where data goes and who else touches it.

In VGraple CRM

The DPA is published at /dpa with standard contractual clauses, the sub-processor list and the security measures; it applies automatically to every customer under the terms of service and can be countersigned on request for procurement.

GDPR, DPDP Act, PII.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to sign it?
It applies through the terms; a countersigned copy is available on request.
Who are the sub-processors?
Listed in the DPA and on the security page, including hosting, email and AI model providers.
What happens to my data if I leave?
Export is available from settings, and data is deleted after the retention period stated in the DPA.

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