Bliro GDPR and Data Protection: What You Need to Know

Bliro GDPR and Data Protection: The Basic Question

Bliro is an AI-based meeting assistant that automatically transcribes conversations — without appearing as a visible bot in the meeting. For many, this is convenient: no extra participant and no disruption. But it’s precisely this "invisible" mode that raises data protection concerns. As soon as personal data is processed, GDPR regulations apply — and they come with clear requirements.

How Bliro Works: Silent in the Background

Bliro runs as a desktop app or browser plug-in and transcribes meetings without alerting other participants. No bot is invited, and no external presence is shown. Instead, Bliro accesses the local microphone or audio output to generate real-time transcriptions.

The following data may be processed:

• Spoken language (converted from audio to text)
• Timestamps and speaker information
• In some cases, metadata such as calendar details

According to the provider, all processing occurs on EU servers and audio recordings are not stored.

Bliro GDPR and Data Protection: Transparency Often Lacking

From a GDPR standpoint, transparency is essential. All participants must know that their input is being processed. But with Bliro, this often doesn’t happen in practice. Because the tool doesn’t appear in the meeting or announce itself, its use can go unnoticed.

This risks violating:

• Article 5(1)(a): Lawful, fair, and transparent processing
• Article 13: Obligation to inform data subjects

Even if Bliro only produces text and does not store audio, the content may still be personal and protected under GDPR.

EU Hosting: An Advantage For GDPR But Not a Free Pass

Bliro uses EU-based servers exclusively. This means no third-country data transfers and no risk of access by non-EU governments. It also offers data processing agreements in line with Article 28 of the GDPR.

Still, EU hosting alone isn’t enough. Without clear notice or consent, transcription is not lawful under GDPR. Responsibility lies not with Bliro, but with the person actively using the tool.

What Bliro Requires For GDPR Compliance

To use Bliro in a GDPR-compliant way, the following should be ensured:

• Advance notice to all participants that the meeting will be transcribed
• Clear explanation of why it’s being recorded and who will access the transcript
• An option to consent (or object( especially in sensitive discussions
• Responsible handling by the organizer or moderator

This communication should ideally be part of the calendar invite, shared before the meeting, or announced at the beginning — and it should be verifiable.

Bliro GDPR and Data Protection: In Theory vs. Practice

In real-world scenarios, Bliro is often used without any prior communication. Sometimes it’s due to a lack of awareness; sometimes it’s just convenience. But even if the tool itself is privacy-friendly, silent use can still violate GDPR.

What this means:

• Good technology alone isn’t enough — responsible usage is key
• No notice or consent = potential GDPR breach
• Regulatory complaints or audits may lead to consequences

Conclusion: Bliro Is GDPR-Friendly If Used Transparently

Bliro is technically privacy-conscious: no audio recordings, local operation, and EU-based hosting. But the lack of visibility creates risk.

To stay compliant, users must clearly communicate what the tool does and why it’s being used. Without that, Bliro remains a grey area — or worse, a GDPR violation. With proper awareness and responsible use, however, Bliro can be a reliable, privacy-compliant tool.

Alternatives like Sally AI bring a visible bot into the meeting that announces its presence, offering a simpler and more secure approach to compliance.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.