How to protect data in times of change? A review of the EU Commission's and ICO's response to updating the law on data protection

Abstract

Data protection law faces a challenging and difficult road ahead, and while the current law still has valid core principles, there is a need for it to evolve and adapt to global changes, in particular those driven by the Internet. The fast pace of technological innovation has triggered a review of data protection law both at an EU and UK level. This article explores these broad changes, as well as considering the implications any review may have on individuals with regard to their personal data. The article also considers the new enforcement powers of the Information Commissioner and the growing role of the ICO in administering data protection law in the United Kingdom. © 2011 Macmillan Publishers Ltd.