Misleading Data Protection Letters
South Tyneside's businesses are urged to be on their
guard if they receive threatening letters warning them
they face a £5,000 fine if they do not register
for data protection purposes.
Dozens of worried businesses have contacted South Tyneside's
trading standards over the past weeks about the letters,
from 'Data Protection Registration Services'.
Headed 'Final Notice' the letter states that the business
has still not registered their details with the Information
Commissioner and it warns them that failure to do so
is a criminal offence punishable by a fine of up to
£5,000.
The notice adds that Data Protection Registration Services
will organise the registration on behalf of the business
- for a £95 fee
Our advice is to ignore these misleading claims and
to check whether you are required to register for data
protection purposes. If you do, a flat rate charge of
£35 is payable.
There is a legal requirement under the Data Protection
Act 1988 for organisations, who hold personal data or
use CCTV, advertising or marketing in its every day
business to notify the Information Commissioner who
is responsible in maintaining the Public Register. There
are some exemptions from notification
Businesses can check their legal obligation and register
online or by phoning the helpline on 01625 545740.
Further information is also available direct from the
Data
Protection Commission website which includes a press
release and a list of companies who the Information
Commissioner is concerned about.
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