The United Kingdom data privacy watchdog reports that the number of complaints received since the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) took effect three months ago has almost doubled.  Under GDPR, anyone who believes their personal data has been misused can file a complaint with the Information Commissioner’s Office, or ICO.

Legal Experts say GDPR is promoting greater privacy awareness, mainly because organizations have to reveal when, and often times, how they were breached. Ann Henry, a Dublin-based attorney who specializes in data protection law, says “This increase in reported data breaches and in complaints from data subjects is a trend we expect to see continuing as the public becomes increasingly aware of their rights under GDPR and the value of protecting their personal data from a privacy perspective.”

Thus far, none of the EU’s Data Protection Authorities have imposed any fines based on GDPR policy. It’s simply too soon, having been only three months since inception.  At some point though, perhaps in the very near future, the tide will change.

A previous blog post by my colleague Linn Freedman, provides valuable information on GDPR requirements and guidance on what organizations can do now to comply.

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Photo of Jim Merrifield Jim Merrifield

Jim Merrifield is Robinson+Cole’s Director of Information Governance & Business Intake, a member of the Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team, and a non-attorney contributor to the Data Privacy + Security Insider blog. He has spent nearly 20 years helping organizations of all sizes…

Jim Merrifield is Robinson+Cole’s Director of Information Governance & Business Intake, a member of the Data Privacy + Cybersecurity Team, and a non-attorney contributor to the Data Privacy + Security Insider blog. He has spent nearly 20 years helping organizations of all sizes, including law firms and Fortune 500 companies, develop and implement practical information governance strategies, policies, and best practices. Jim is a well-respected expert in the information governance industry. With an extensive background in policy development and enforcement, enterprise program deployment, and technology solutions, he has earned a strong reputation as a knowledgeable practitioner and reliable consultant. His deep understanding of the space is reflected by his many publications, lectures, and consulting services for top-tier companies and law firms. Jim holds a bachelor degree in Legal Studies from Quinnipiac University and is a certified information governance professional (IGP).

Jim’s innovative thinking and commitment for the industry has enabled him to create the popular podcast, InfoGov Hot Seat, a platform for candid conversations featuring practitioners, consultants and solution providers – offering valuable perspectives to listeners about legal technology and managing information as an asset.