iSEEU Blog: Secure data in motion

The Information Commissioner, Christopher Graham, has laid out the ICO's focus for 2012 on the ICO blog. "Practical but principled" application of the rules surrounding information rights is the primary focus.

The right to privacy and the right to know

It's clear from events in 2011 that navigating the world of information is getting more and more complex for organisations, public and private. The ICO is concerned with information rights - the Data Protection Act and the Freedom of Information act - expressed succinctly as "the right to privacy and the right to know."

What is clear is that sanctions are set to increase against those who are unable to effectively observe and enforce the legislation in their organisations. Both data protection and freedom of information require governance and control over information and data within the organisation.

Threats to observation of data protection?

The Information Commissioner also warns that cuts and austerity shouldn't be seen as an excuse to avoid observation of the acts. 

"Just because rights are talked about doesn’t mean they are respected in the cold climate of austerity, with cuts in the public sector, cut-throat competition in the private sector – and an element of both in the voluntary bodies/charities sector. The danger is that rights are seen as a nice to have in the good times, but a bureaucratic inconvenience when times are hard."

Organisations warned not to cut corners

The Information Commissioner stressed in strong terms the need for organisations - public and private - to continue to observe data protection law, citing the potential for loss of reputation as well as potential fines of up to £500,000 for serious data breaches. 

Whilst acknowledging that 2012 is going to be challenging, the ICO, confirmed that their soon-to-be-published Information Rights Strategy will leave no doubt of its commitment to defend and enforce information rights.

If you would like to know how iSEEU's portfolio of secure access, data sharing and collaboration tools can help your organisation with its data protection compliance, contact us now for more information or to arrange a demonstration.