Once dataUnits of information. In computing there can be different data types, including integers, characters and Boolean. Data is often acted on by instructions. is put into a computer it can easily be copied or transmitted. This puts people's personal data at risk and organisations that hold such data should do their best to ensure it remains private. Data Protection ActLegislation passed by parliament that governs the protection of personal data in the UK. exists to ensure that organisations in the UK comply with the law regarding data privacy.
Many people download apps for their smartphone that ask for permission to access data held on the phone. Once accessed, this data is usually sent to the app producer, who is often in another country and not always subject to the privacy laws that exist in the UK.
In 2016, the government introduced the Investigatory Powers Act. This sets out rules on the use of investigatory powers by law enforcement and the security and intelligence agencies. Under the act, phone companies and internet service providers are required to keep copies of users' emails and browsing histories for a period of time. It also gives the police and security services the authority to access computers and phones to search for data. This act has proved controversial, with opponents concerned over how it impacts citizens' right to privacy.
