The digital world is changing and it is being driven by data. People are starting to be concerned that their personal data will be used inappropriately or even without their knowledge. In this new episode of the digital revolution we need to balance our data services whilst protecting privacy.

A decade ago we lived in a totally different digital world. Because of this, the laws and regulations within the UK are ready for a much needed update. Which laws ?

One of the big questions to arise over recent years is: who is responsible for my personal data?

We are now seen as a physical self and a digital self, described in terms of data. Should the government continue to serve and protect the population by means of legislation and improving resilience?

Should our governments do more? How can permission be given to anyone to mange the use of this data. Should business manage the data? Should Government manage it or should you manage it yourself?

Do citizens have rights concerning their data? Are we aware of those rights? Do we need to know?

So what is happening to monitor and regulate the organisations that share personal data?

The EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

Prepare for change. It is coming and public and private organisations need to listen. The biggest overhaul of the past 20 years is coming into effect in May 2018, and it is the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and its long overdue. Here are a few things to be aware of:

1. Its the responsibility of every organisation sharing data to understand what data you are sharing, what purpose you are sharing it for, who you are sharing it with, and how its been shared
2. Having a register of your data by type and system will be critical
3. For certain types of data and uses you will need to obtain and manage explicit plain language consent as well as any opt outs
4. You will need to understand the legal basis for processing data
5. You will need to detect, report  and investigate data breaches

The complexity of GDPR is just the beginning. It also increases the risk and penalty of any organisation that fails to handle information in the right way. The maximum fine will be 4% of global turnover. This is a very good place start ICO GDPR

Be prepared, Start today!

In order to get ahead of all this change you need to keep pace with it. Firstly you need to prepare to comply with the new regulations in less than 12 weeks time. There is still time and you could save yourself from compliance costs further down the line. We have talked to many of our customers and they want to transition to GDPR as calmly and quietly as possible, whereas some want to embrace if fully and see it as an opportunity to create or even rekindle conversations with customers about their data and how its used. GDPR can used to take your customer relationship skills to a new level.

We are excited about the new opportunities that GDPR will create for our organisations and customers. Its an exciting time.

Happy to Help!

If you require any further assistance with General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) Compliance then please ring us on 01723 587240 or email robert@practicalnetworks.co.uk