New figures from the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) reveal that there has been a significant increase in the number of potential data breaches reported to the ICO since the introduction of GDPR in May 2018.
The number of reported potential data breaches increased by 160% since GDPR came into force, with over 25% of complaints concerning businesses continuing to hold sensitive information. As members of the public become increasingly aware about GDPR and their data protection rights, it cannot come as a surprise that organisations are facing greater scrutiny about data protection, especially from their members of staff.
In addition, it has been reported that the number of data subject access requests have significantly increased, thereby creating additional workload for many employers.
It is unlikely public awareness of GDPR will diminish any time soon, especially with an increasing number of companies disclosing that they have been hit by hackers.
GDPR is complex and broad ranging in its scope and is one of the most significant changes to employment law in recent years. Therefore coupled with the greater enforcement penalties and powers from the ICO, which could include a fine which could be up to €20 million or 4% of annual global turnover, whichever is higher, it is paramount employers fully understand the implications of GDPR, and crucially what steps should be taken on an ongoing basis.
Firms looking for advice on HR and employment law issues relating to data protection and GDPR can speak to Miss Sally Morris via 01905 610410 or email sally.morris@mfgsolicitors.com.
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