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ARTICLE · 27 APRIL 2020

U.K.'S Data Protection Regulator's Updated Guidance On "Empathetic And Pragmatic" Approach

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On April 15, 2020, the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO), the U.K.'s data protection authority, issued further guidance on its regulatory approach during the global COVID-19 pandemic.

United KingdomPrivacy
Mark Dawkins
Mark Dawkins
Jenny Arlington
Jenny Arlington
Sahar Abas
Sahar Abas
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On April 15, 2020, the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO), the U.K.'s data protection authority, issued further guidance on its regulatory approach during the global COVID-19 pandemic. Following its March note that we reported on, the ICO has confirmed that its approach "has always been to be a pragmatic and proportionate regulator," adding that in the current public health emergency it will continue to safeguard information rights in an "empathetic" way.

The ICO's efforts during the pandemic will be focused on the most serious challenges and greatest threats to the public. The updated guidance states that the regulator will take firm action against those seeking to exploit the pandemic through misusing personal information or nuisance calls. In addition, the ICO will assist frontline organizations in providing advice and guidance on data protection laws. In recognition of the potential economic and resource burdens that any regulatory actions may impose, the

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