Thursday, 12 May 2016

What is the Data Protection Act 1998?


The Data Protection Act 1998 controls how your personal information is used by organisations, businesses or the government. It also give you the right to know what information is stored about you and how they can use it.

The Data Protection Principles

Under the Data Protection Act 1998, anyone who processes personal information must ensure that the information is:
  1. Fairly and lawfully processed
  2. Processed for limited purposes
  3. Adequate, relevant and not excessive
  4. Accurate
  5. Not kept for longer than is necessary
  6. Proceed in line with an individual's rights
  7. Secure
  8. Not transferred to other countries without adequate protection

How to find out what data an organisation has about you

The Data Protection Act 1998 gives you the right to know what information is stored about you and you can make a request in writing. This is known as a subject access request and a response must be given within 40 days of the request.

How much does it cost?

Some organisations may charge you for providing the information. The cost is usually no more than £10 and adequate proof of identity is required from the applicant before considering the request.

If you think your data has been misused or that the organisation holding it hasn’t been kept secure then contact Garden House Solicitors for further advice on 01992 422128. 

Follow us on Twitter                                                                  Connect with us on LinkedIn



Garden House Solicitors, Hertford - Data protection
www.gardenhousesolicitors.co.uk

Tel: 01992 422 128

Email: info@gardenhousesolicitors.co.uk
The contents of this article are intended for general information purposes only and shall not be deemed to be, or constitute legal advice. We cannot accept responsibility for any loss as a result of acts or omissions taken in respect of this article.

No comments:

Post a Comment