Yes, recording phone calls in Hungary is legal under strict conditions. Both parties must consent, per Act CXVII of 2013 on Electronic Communications, enforced by the National Media and Infocommunications Authority (NMHH). Unilateral recording risks civil liability under GDPR-equivalent data protection rules.
Key Regulations for Recording Phone Calls in Hungary
- Two-Party Consent Requirement: Act CXVII mandates explicit consent from all parties involved. Recording without consent constitutes a violation of privacy under Section 11.
- Data Protection Compliance: The Hungarian GDPR (Act CXII of 2011) applies to recorded calls containing personal data. Controllers must justify lawful basis, purpose limitation, and storage duration.
- 2026 Compliance Shifts: NMHH’s upcoming 2026 guidelines will tighten enforcement on cross-border data transfers in call recordings, aligning with EU ePrivacy Regulation drafts.
Recording is permissible only for lawful purposes (e.g., business documentation) and must adhere to transparency obligations. Unauthorized disclosure or storage triggers penalties up to HUF 20 million (≈€50,000) under the GDPR. Businesses must document consent and retention policies to mitigate legal exposure.