COVID-19: Data Protection

The current circumstances are unprecedented. People are however pulling together and trying to carry on as normally as possible.

For many of us that means radically adapting our working practices. Anyone who can should work from home. There are potentially data protection issues in relation to the exchange of information and its security. Data practices may not be up to a business’ usual standards; its response to information rights requests may be slower. However, this should not stop you doing your work. Proportionality is key.

The Information Commissioner’ Office is getting behind businesses and individuals working remotely. Whilst it can do nothing about statutory time limits, it will emphasise the particular circumstances to data subjects in its dealings with them. It also has stressed that it will not penalise businesses who need to prioritise other areas over and above data protection compliance in the current circumstances.

The ICO has provided advice on COVID-19 and data protection to include health information of employees here.

Cleaver Fulton Rankin is committed to maintaining continuity with our colleagues, staff and clients as much as we can during the current circumstances. All our staff are now working remotely and available to deal with queries by email or over the phone. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have a query in relation to data protection.

This article has been produced for general information purposes and further advice should be sought from a professional advisor. Please contact our Data Protection team at Cleaver Fulton Rankin for further advice or information.