UK Data
Protection.
Post-Brexit data protection framework. UK GDPR retained with domestic adaptations under the Data Protection Act 2018.
UK GDPR
Following Brexit, the UK retained the GDPR as the "UK GDPR" through the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018. The Data Protection Act 2018 provides supplementary provisions and exemptions.
The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) serves as the independent supervisory authority, with powers to investigate, audit, and issue fines up to £17.5 million or 4% of global turnover.
The EU granted the UK an adequacy decision in June 2021, allowing continued data flows. This decision is subject to review and renewal.
Data Protection Principles
Lawfulness, Fairness & Transparency
Processing must be lawful with clear information provided
Purpose Limitation
Collected for specified, explicit and legitimate purposes
Data Minimisation
Adequate, relevant and limited to what is necessary
Accuracy
Accurate and, where necessary, kept up to date
Storage Limitation
Kept no longer than necessary
Security
Appropriate security against unauthorised processing
UK Regulators
Information Commissioner's Office
Primary data protection authority
GDPR enforcement, guidance, and investigations
Competition & Markets Authority
Competition oversight
Digital markets and data-related competition issues
Financial Conduct Authority
Financial services regulator
Data protection in banking and financial services
Office of Communications
Communications regulator
Online safety and digital communications
Divergence Tracker
The UK government has signaled intentions to diverge from EU GDPR in certain areas, prioritizing a "pro-innovation" approach while maintaining adequacy.
Legitimate Interests
ExpandedBroader scope for business activities
International Transfers
SimplifiedNew transfer mechanisms proposed
Research Exemptions
EnhancedReduced restrictions on scientific research
Cookie Consent
Under ReviewPotential opt-out model consideration
UK-India Data Flows
Understand the adequacy landscape for cross border transfers between the UK and India under DPDPA Section 16.
View Adequacy Matrix →