The UK’s legislative landscape is evolving with the introduction of the Data Protection and Digital Information (No. 2) Bill. This bill, currently progressing through the parliamentary process, aims to modernize data laws for the digital era. Spearheaded by Data Minister Julia Lopez, it’s slated for a parliamentary debate in August 2023 and is expected to have a significant impact.
The bill carries a two-part objective: enhancing privacy and efficiency for the public. Annoyances like frequent cookie pop-ups during online browsing and nuisance calls are squarely addressed. The proposed legislation aims to reduce the frequency of consent pop-ups and impose more substantial fines on organizations behind unwanted calls, all in a bid to gain public trust in data handling practices.
The bill’s timing aligns with the Global Cross-Border Privacy Rules Forum, a gathering of data experts focusing on global privacy strategies. As this event unfolds over four days, discussions and workshops are set to shape the future of data privacy approaches.
Key features of the Data Protection and Digital Information Bill:
- Reducing Annoyances: Consent pop-ups that repeatedly ask for permission to collect user data online will be curbed.
- Increased Fines: Fines for nuisance calls and texts could increase to £17.5 million or four percent of global turnover, discouraging unsolicited communications.
- Digital Identity Verification: Secure digital verification services will be established, streamlining online identity verification.
- Boosting Data Trade: Legal changes will enhance the UK’s capability to create secure global data deals, particularly important for UK businesses post-Brexit.
- Aligned with GDPR: The bill seeks to modernize the Information Commissioner’s Office and align with the European Union’s GDPR to ensure robust data protection.
- Data Minister Julia Lopez emphasizes that the bill bridges data protection standards with industry advancements, addressing real-world scenarios through collaborative input.
- The bill’s introduction coincides with the Global Cross-Border Privacy Rules Forum, where the UK aims to lead conversations among officials, regulators, and privacy experts.
In conclusion,
The Data Protection Bill is set to reshape the UK’s data regulation landscape by tackling practical issues, imposing stricter penalties, and fostering strong international relationships.
Need help navigating the Data Protection Bill? For expert advice and consultation from our Data Protection Officer, contact us on dpo@tenintel.com.
