Press Release Archives
Press Release
Kiersted / Systems Earns Safe Harbor Certification
US Department of Commerce Certifies Data Security
Houston, TX - March 16, 2009
Kiersted / Systems, a seasoned leader in electronic discovery and legal technology consulting, has announced that it has formalized and documented its data privacy procedures and earned certification under the Safe Harbor Framework between the United States Department of Commerce and the European Commission.
The United States and the European Union have differing approaches to the protection of privacy for their citizens, and the Safe Harbor Framework was developed to ensure the privacy and security of personal data originating in EU member countries. Safe Harbor certification provides assurance to EU organizations and agencies that Kiersted / Systems understands the Safe Harbor Framework and has taken required steps for implementing personal data privacy protections.
“Our clients expect the highest level of security during processing, review and production of electronically stored information,” said Chris Dodd, Manager, e-Discovery and Operations, Kiersted / Systems. “Safe Harbor certification demonstrates our commitment to protect sensitive and confidential data and to support our clients’ critical business operations.”
US organizations that decide to participate in Safe Harbor do so voluntarily, and they must agree to adhere to Safe Harbor requirements, including elements such as notice, choice, access, and enforcement. Being certified, in most instances, permits Kiersted / Systems to transfer data between the EU and the US without the need for prior approval, as this requirement is waived or automatically granted.
Dodd adds, “We appreciate the support of the US Department of Commerce and are pleased to be on its formal list of organizations committed to protect data, privacy and confidentiality.”
The Department of Commerce maintains a public list of Safe Harbor organizations and the Federal Trade Commission is responsible for enforcing compliance among organizations who have certified their adherence to Safe Harbor requirements. For more details, visit Kiersted / Systems’ Web site and certification online at http://www.kiersted.com/safe-harbor.php. Learn more about the Safe Harbor program by visiting the U.S. Government’s Export Portal at www.export.gov/safeharbor/.
XXX
About Kiersted / Systems
Kiersted / Systems, Inc. is a proven leader in electronic discovery and legal technology consulting. Its team of experienced, senior professionals provides a full range of legal technology services, including electronic discovery processing, forensic data collection, and corporate legal department consulting with a focus on matter management, legal hold, and discovery management. Kiersted / Systems was named a Top 5 Service Provider in the 2008 Socha-Gelbmann Electronic Discovery Survey. Founded in 1984, Kiersted / Systems is headquartered in Houston, Texas. More information is available at www.kiersted.com.


