The Data Protection Act and You - Oct 24 Changes.

Background:
The Data Protection Act was introduced in 1998 . It allows people to enquire and be made aware of the information which firms are using and holding about them. Through accessing this information individuals have the opportunity to see if files are correct, relevant or incomplete and can advise the record holding organisation accordingly.

Currently, the DPA gives people the right to view personal information held about themselves, whether it is on paper or held electronically. Requests must be made in writing to the company or individual who holds the data.

For any electronically held data, relating to updates after 1998, an organisation must supply all files within 40 days.

October 2007 Implications:
On 24th October 2007, the DPA changed, and firms will have to supply ALL data from 1998 onwards, not just that held on electronic files, within 40 days of the initial request.

New documents that fall under the Act include manual data - health records, local authority, housing and social services records for example as well as records on active files which has not been put onto an electronic system.

Firms that cannot provide their records to an enquirer within the 40 day period will be liable to a fine. There is a legal right of recourse through the courts for the public to challenge organisations that are late with information and also to enforce changes to data to ensure its accuracy.

It is therefore more important than ever that firms and organisations have quick access to accurately stored and retrievable information.

We at Packaging Plus are prepared for these changes and our INVU based data retrieval system will facilitate the new requirements. The disk that we will furnish advisors with on completion of their case will also help them to keep up to speed with these changes.

Paste the link into your URL to see a recent Financial Times article on the implications of the changes to the DPA. http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/6f4905d4-5823-11dc-8c65-0000779fd2ac.html

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Packaging Plus Ltd, Cardiff House, Cardiff Road, Barry, Vale of Glamorgan. CF63 2AW
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