BCC urges businesses to prepare for new data protection regulations

26 May 2017

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has urged UK businesses to prepare for the implementation of new data protection regulations.

Starting from 25 May 2018, businesses that hold personal information will be required to ensure that their data procedures are adequate and that these comply with the new General Data Protection Regulation.

The BCC has recommended that businesses make a record of what personal data the firm holds, where it came from and who it has been shared with.

It also urged firms to review how the company ‘seeks, obtains and records consent from individuals’, ensure that appropriate procedures are in place to detect a breach in personal data and determine whether the business requires a Data Protection Officer.

David Riches, Executive Director at the BCC, commented: ‘Businesses need to be proactive about ensuring they are ready for the new data protection regulations when they come into force this time next year, and not leave preparations until the eleventh hour.

‘Those firms that don’t fulfil the necessary responsibilities leave themselves vulnerable to tough penalties, not to mention public scrutiny.

‘The General Data Protection Regulation is intended to reflect modern working practices in the digital age, and will strengthen consumer trust and confidence in businesses.’