The Information Commissioner's Office has published guidance for people
to claim compensation when their data protection rights are breached
Claiming compensation, published on
February 2007
explains an individual's right to make a claim from an organisation which has
breached the Data Protection Act. It includes advice on the procedures and
taking a case to court.
David Smith, deputy information commissioner, said: “We are often
contacted by people who have suffered damage as a result of an organisation
failing to meet its data protection responsibilities. The guidance will ensure
individuals are aware of their right to claim compensation and give them
practical assistance in doing so.”
The ICO cannot award compensation itself, even when it rules that an
organisation did breach the act. It has powers to prosecute organisations for
some breaches but individuals claiming compensation have to make their own
claims to the court.
Source:
Kable's Government Computing
