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Last updated · 2026-04-23

Conversation recording guidelines

Kuno can record, transcribe and summarise conversations. This page summarises the most important legal requirements in Germany and offers practical guidance. It is not a substitute for individual legal advice.

1. Legal framework

Recording the spoken word in a non-public setting without the consent of every participant is a criminal offence in Germany under § 201 of the German Criminal Code (StGB). In addition the EU GDPR and the German Federal Data Protection Act (BDSG) apply: any processing of personal data – which includes audio recordings – requires a legal basis, typically explicit consent under Art. 6(1)(a) GDPR.

2. Always obtain – and document – consent

Before any recording starts, every participant must explicitly agree. Recommended steps:

  • Announce in advance in writing: note in the meeting invitation that the conversation will be recorded, and briefly explain why.
  • Confirm verbally at the start: the host states that recording is about to begin and actively asks each participant to consent.
  • Accept refusal: if a participant does not consent, recording must not start, or must be stopped immediately.

3. Transparency during the conversation

Make it visible when recording is active (e.g. a clear signal from Kuno). Participants should be able to recognise that a recording is in progress.

4. Purpose limitation and retention

Recordings may only be used for the purpose communicated in advance (e.g. producing meeting notes). We recommend deleting audio data once transcription has been completed and reviewed, and at the latest after a pre-defined retention period.

5. Special situations

  • Conversations with employees: involve the works council where applicable; recordings enjoy heightened protection.
  • Conversations with patients, clients or customers: observe professional duties and confidentiality obligations.
  • External participants: their consent is also required; a note in a calendar invite alone is not sufficient.

6. Responsibility

The person or organisation conducting the conversation is always responsible for lawful recording. Kuno provides the technical means; obtaining consent and complying with legal requirements rests with the user.