GDPR Guide for Server Operators
Updated 2026-03-18
GDPR Guide for Server Operators
What Data Do Game Servers Collect?
- Player usernames and Steam IDs
- IP addresses
- Chat logs
- Connection timestamps
- In-game statistics
- Custom data from plugins/mods
Your GDPR Obligations
If your server has EU players, you must:
- Inform players what data you collect (privacy notice)
- Have a legal basis for processing (legitimate interest or consent)
- Minimize data collection — only collect what you need
- Set data retention periods — don't keep data forever
- Respond to player requests — access, deletion, portability
- Report breaches within 72 hours
- Appoint a DPO if processing sensitive data at scale
Practical Steps
- Add a privacy notice to your server rules/MOTD
- Configure log retention (delete old logs automatically)
- Have a process for player data requests
- Use encryption for stored player data
- Keep server software updated
GameHostCloud's GDPR Measures
- All data stored in EU data centers
- Encrypted storage and transmission
- Data processing agreement available
- Regular security audits
- Automatic backup encryption