UK GDPR Data Protection Act

United Kingdom

2018

Privacy

Overview

The UK GDPR is the United Kingdom's data protection framework that came into effect on January 1, 2021, following Brexit. It mirrors the EU's GDPR with modifications to reflect domestic laws under the Data Protection Act 2018. The regulation governs the collection, processing, and storage of personal data and applies to all organizations that handle the personal information of UK residents.

It introduces requirements around consent, transparency, data minimization, and accountability. Financial institutions, e-commerce businesses, insurers, healthcare providers, government agencies, and data processors must comply with rules on data subject rights, lawful processing, and international transfers. The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) oversees enforcement.

Key Obligations

Obtain explicit, informed consent for data processing
Ensure transparency and lawful basis for data use
Provide data subjects with access, correction, and erasure rights

Appoint a Data Protection Officer (DPO) where required
Report data breaches to the ICO within 72 hours
Limit cross-border transfers unless adequate safeguards exist

FAQ

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