How to Configure WPForms for GDPR Compliance

GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) requires websites to handle personal data responsibly. If you’re using WPForms, here’s how to configure it properly for GDPR compliance.

Step 1: Enable GDPR Enhancements in WPForms

WPForms has a built-in GDPR enhancement feature that helps with compliance.

How to Enable:

  1. Go to WPForms > Settings in your WordPress dashboard.
  2. Click on the General tab.
  3. Scroll to the GDPR Enhancements section.
  4. Check the box for Enable GDPR Enhancements.
  5. Save your settings.

What This Does:

  • Disables storing entry details like IP addresses and user agents.
  • Prevents collecting cookies for form submissions.
  • Helps minimise unnecessary data storage.

Step 2: Add a GDPR Consent Checkbox

A consent checkbox ensures users explicitly agree to data collection, which is essential for GDPR compliance.

How to Add a Consent Checkbox:

  1. Open the form you want to edit in WPForms > All Forms.
  2. Drag and drop the GDPR Agreement field from the Standard Fields section.
  3. Customize the label text to be clear and direct, such as:
    "I agree to the terms and conditions and consent to data processing."
  4. Ensure the Required box is checked to make the field mandatory.

Best Practices for Consent Language:

  • Use clear language without legal jargon.
  • Avoid pre-checked boxes (GDPR requires active consent).
  • Link to your Privacy Policy page.

Step 3: Limit Data Collection in WPForms Entries

GDPR encourages collecting only the data you need. WPForms allows you to disable entry storage when not required.

How to Disable Entry Storage:

  1. Go to WPForms > All Forms.
  2. Edit the form where you want to limit data collection.
  3. Click Settings > General.
  4. Enable Disable Storing Entry Information in WordPress.

This prevents storing form data in your WordPress database, ideal for simple contact forms where you don’t need to save data.

Step 4: Configure GDPR-Friendly Email Notifications

If you’re collecting user data, emails sent through WPForms should align with GDPR rules.

How to Adjust Email Settings:

  1. Go to WPForms > All Forms > Settings > Notifications.
  2. Avoid including personal data like IP addresses in notification emails.
  3. Use placeholders instead, such as {field_id="1"} for specific fields.
  4. Send notifications only to necessary team members.

✅ Pro Tip: Avoid sending sensitive data via email whenever possible.

Step 5: Link to Your Privacy Policy in Forms

Your forms should clearly link to your Privacy Policy so users understand how their data is handled.

How to Add a Privacy Policy Link:

  1. Add a HTML Block field from the form builder.
  2. Insert the link using:
    <a href="https://yourwebsite.com/privacy-policy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Privacy Policy</a>
  3. Position the link near the GDPR Consent checkbox for visibility.

✅ Best Practice: Your privacy policy should clearly state:

  • What data you collect.
  • Why you collect it.
  • How long you store it.
  • How users can request data removal.

Step 6: Allow Users to Request Data Deletion

GDPR requires that users can request their data to be deleted.

How to Set Up a Data Deletion Form:

  1. Create a new form with WPForms.
  2. Include the following fields:
    • Name
    • Email Address
    • Message (for users to request deletion)
  3. Add a GDPR consent checkbox confirming the user wants their data deleted.

You can also integrate this with the WordPress Erase Personal Data Tool under Tools > Erase Personal Data.

Step 7: Use reCAPTCHA for Bot Protection (Without Tracking)

Google reCAPTCHA protects your forms from spam, but standard usage tracks personal data. For GDPR compliance, you can use hCaptcha instead, which doesn’t track users.

How to Enable hCaptcha:

  1. Go to WPForms > Settings > CAPTCHA.
  2. Select hCaptcha.
  3. Create an account on hCaptcha and get your site key and secret key.
  4. Paste the keys into WPForms and save.

✅ Why hCaptcha? It’s privacy-friendly and doesn’t collect user data, unlike reCAPTCHA.

Step 8: Review Third-Party Integrations

If you’re using WPForms with tools like Mailchimp, Zapier, or CRM systems, they must also be GDPR-compliant.

Steps to Review:

  • Check each tool’s GDPR policy.
  • Ensure they offer Data Processing Agreements (DPA).
  • Disable unnecessary data syncing features.

✅ Best Practice: Use double opt-ins when integrating with marketing platforms to ensure consent.

Step 9: Secure Your Site with SSL and Security Plugins

A secure site is a core part of GDPR compliance. Ensure your site uses SSL encryption.

How to Check and Enable SSL:

  • If you see a padlock in your browser bar, your SSL is active.
  • If not, install the Really Simple SSL plugin or enable SSL through your hosting provider.

✅ Additional Steps:

  • Use security plugins like Wordfence or Sucuri.
  • Limit access to sensitive data by setting up User Roles carefully.

Step 10: Keep WPForms and Plugins Updated

Outdated plugins can create security vulnerabilities, which can impact GDPR compliance.

Steps to Stay Updated:

  • Enable automatic updates for WPForms.
  • Review plugin compatibility after updates.
  • Test forms regularly to ensure they function properly after updates.

Step 11: Hire a GDPR Expert for WPForms

Configuring WPForms for GDPR compliance can get tricky when dealing with complex data collection setups. If you’re unsure whether your forms are fully compliant or need help with advanced configurations, hiring a professional can save you time and legal risks.

 

Need Help Making WPForms GDPR-Compliant?

Get expert assistance in configuring WPForms for GDPR compliance, securing user data, and setting up consent features the right way. Work with certified WordPress professionals who specialise in GDPR configurations.

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FAQs About Configuring WPForms for GDPR Compliance

Is WPForms GDPR-Compliant by Default?

No, WPForms is not automatically GDPR-compliant. You need to enable GDPR features manually and adjust consent settings to align with GDPR guidelines.

Do I Need a Consent Checkbox on Every Form?

Yes, if you’re collecting personal data. The GDPR consent checkbox ensures users actively agree to data collection before submitting a form.

Does WPForms Store User Data?

By default, WPForms stores user entries in your WordPress database. To prevent this, enable the Disable Storing Entry Information option in the form settings.

Can I Use Google reCAPTCHA and Still Be GDPR-Compliant?

Not fully. Google reCAPTCHA collects user data for verification purposes. To avoid GDPR conflicts, consider using hCaptcha, which does not track personal data.

Do I Need to Include a Privacy Policy Link?

Yes, GDPR requires transparency. Always link to your privacy policy and clearly explain how data will be used.

What’s the Difference Between WPForms Lite and Pro for GDPR Compliance?

  • Lite Version: Basic forms with GDPR checkbox support.
  • Pro Version: Advanced features like entry storage control, hCaptcha, and consent settings.

Can I Get Sued for Not Being GDPR Compliant?

Yes, non-compliance can lead to heavy fines. GDPR violations can result in penalties up to €20 million or 4% of your annual turnover, whichever is higher.

Configuring WPForms for GDPR compliance isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about protecting your users’ data responsibly. Follow these steps carefully or hire a professional for peace of mind.