Strict new data protection rules imposed by the UK Government

The new business focused data protection rules will inflict fines for companies with nuisance calls and spam. It will allow customers to automatically opt-out of cookies and annoying pop-ups when they’re browsing the internet. This will allow consumers to feel more at ease knowing their personal data is not given out unknowingly if they accidentally don’t tick the boxes.

The reform has increased fines for breaching the UK’s existing Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR).  The £500,000 fine, being the current maximum, businesses that send out nuisance calls and texts will now increase to £17.5million or four per cent global turnover, whichever is greater.

Plans outlined as part of London Tech Week include proposals to replace unnecessary paperwork to deliver around £1 billion in business savings. This will give researchers more flexibility to conduct life-saving scientific research and deliver major breakthroughs to improve people’s lives.

Digital Secretary Nadine Dorries said:

“Today is an important step in cementing post-Brexit Britain’s position as a science and tech superpower.  Our new Data Reform Bill will make it easier for businesses and researchers to unlock the power of data to grow the economy and improve society but retains our global gold standard for data protection.”

“Outside of the EU we can ensure people can control their personal data, while preventing businesses, researchers and civil society from being held back by a lack of clarity and cumbersome EU legislation.”

John Edwards, UK Information Commissioner, said:

“I share and support the ambition of these reforms.”

“I am pleased to see the government has taken our concerns about independence on board. Data protection law needs to give people confidence to share their information to use the products and services that power our economy and society. The proposed changes will ensure my office can continue to operate as a trusted, fair and impartial regulator, and enable us to be more flexible and target our action in response to the greatest harms.”

“We look forward to continuing to work constructively with the government as the proposals are progressed and will continue to monitor how these reforms are expressed in the Bill.”

To read the official press release from the UK Governments website click here.