How does Webflow handle site visitors and form submissions in regards to GDPR compliance?

Webflow provides tools to help users comply with GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation), but it is ultimately the site owner’s responsibility to configure settings properly. Below are key points on how Webflow handles site visitors and form submissions in relation to GDPR compliance.

1. Site Visitors & Cookies

• Webflow automatically sets essential cookies for website functionality, such as hosting and CMS operations.
• If you use third-party tools (e.g., Google Analytics, Facebook Pixel), you must implement a cookie consent banner to obtain user consent before tracking.
• Webflow does not provide a built-in cookie management system, so you may need external integrations like Cookiebot or Osano.

2. Form Submissions & Data Storage

• When a visitor submits a form on a Webflow-hosted site, the data is stored on Webflow’s servers (Amazon Web Services in the U.S.).
• GDPR requires that personal data not be retained longer than necessary, but Webflow does not provide automated data deletion. Manually deleting form submissions is required.
• If handling sensitive personal data, consider exporting and storing form submissions in a GDPR-compliant third-party service (e.g., Zapier + Google Sheets) instead of Webflow’s servers.

3. User Rights & Data Requests

• GDPR grants visitors the right to access, modify, or delete their personal data. Webflow does not offer a self-service portal, so you must respond manually to requests.
• If a user requests deletion, you should remove their data from Webflow's form submissions dashboard and any external storage locations.

4. Data Processing Agreement (DPA)

• Webflow provides a Data Processing Agreement (DPA) that outlines how they process user data. You can request it through Webflow’s Support Team or review it in their legal documentation.
• If your business is based in the EU/EEA, signing a DPA with Webflow is recommended to ensure compliance.

5. Enabling GDPR Compliance

• Add a privacy policy & consent checkboxes: Clearly inform users how their data will be used.
• Use a third-party email service: If collecting email addresses, tools like Mailchimp or ConvertKit may offer better GDPR compliance features than Webflow.
• Disable form submission storage: Route submissions to a GDPR-compliant platform instead of leaving them stored in Webflow.

Summary

Webflow provides the infrastructure for GDPR compliance, but site owners must take action to implement consent mechanisms, manage data storage, and handle user requests. Consider using third-party tools for cookie consent management and secure form submissions.