Carolyn Keene reports: UK Privacy Regulator the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has launched ‘The lights are on’. an interactive DVD to improve understanding of the Data Protection Act 1998 (DPA) and ensure individuals’ personal information is effectively protected.
To encourage organisations better compliance with the Act the DVD highlights a few common mistakes and the eight principles of good data protection practice, It explains the problems that can arise for individuals when their personal information is wrongly disclosed or used by a third party.
David Smith, Deputy Commissioner said:
“This DVD helps get the message across that if you are entrusted with people’s personal information, you must make sure that you follow the principles of the Data Protection Act.”
In January 2008 a solicitor was successfully prosecuted by the ICO for failing to notify under the DPA 1998. He was ordered to pay costs of £804 and given a six months conditional discharge by the Magistrates Court.
Under the DPA, organisations and businesses across the country are required to notify with the ICO if they process information electronically which relates to individuals and that includes emails.
In a recent report, What Price Privacy? the ICO shows how confidential information is sometimes obtained and used improperly from public and private organisations, causing significant harm and distress to individuals.
If you receive any unwanted communications, notify the sender that you no longer wish to be on their list, they have a legal duty whether registered or not to comply with your request.
Simularly if they ignore your request then you are within your rights to contact the ICO and inform them of the DPA breach. Better still, ask before giving out any personal details to ensure the organisation you are dealing with is bonafide and Data Compliant.
‘The lights are on’ DVD also demonstrates the technique a so-called “blagger” uses to extort personal information from an unsuspecting person, organisations need to be on their guard against such blaggers.
Mick Gorrill, Assistant Commissioner at the ICO, said:
“The DPA exists to ensure that people’s personal information is properly stored and properly protected, and the ICO stands ready to use powers to prosecute the small minority that flout the Act.”
Two hundred thousand DVDs are being distributed to data protection officers and public authorities to help ensure organisations within their area are data protection compliant.
For more information visit www.ico.gov.uk or call 08453 091 091.
Isle of Wight Community Information @Island Pulse.
Island Pulse have had a specific request to open up comments on this article. Whilst abiding by our own Data protection Policy http://www.islandpulse.co.uk/b2/policy the sender felt it only fair to let others name and shame organisations whom they feel are abusing your Data. Please feel free to comment below.
By Island Pulse News: Switch On To Data Protection. on April 23rd, 2008