New Data Protection Audit Framework targets compliance improvements

The Data Protection Audit Framework empowers organisations to identify necessary steps to improve their data protection practices and create a culture of compliance. Further, it provides them with a starting point for evaluating how they handle and protect personal information.

Whether for senior management, data protection officers, compliance auditors or those responsible for records management or cyber security, the Data Protection Audit Framework offers practical tools for building and maintaining strong privacy management postures.

The Audit Framework is an extension of the ICO’s existing Accountability Framework and boasts nine toolkits covering the following key areas: accountability, records management, information and cyber security, training and awareness, data sharing, requests for data, personal data breach management, Artificial Intelligence and age-appropriate design.

Each toolkit has a downloadable data protection audit tracker that will assist organisations to conduct their own assessment of compliance, tracking actions that must be taken in those areas highlighted for improvement.

Transparency and accountability

Ian Hulme, the ICO’s director of regulatory assurance, said: “Transparency and accountability in data protection are essential, not just for regulatory compliance, but also for building trust with the public. Research tells us that people increasingly value the responsible use of their personal information and want organisations to be able to demonstrate strong data protection practices.”

Hulme continued: “Our new Data Protection Audit Framework will help when it comes to building trust and encouraging a positive data protection culture, as well as being flexible in targeting the most pressing areas of compliance. We want to empower organisations to embrace data protection as an asset, not just as a legal requirement.”

The ICO is wholly committed to helping organisations of all sizes understand their data protection obligations and improve their practices. By using this Audit Framework, they can enhance their compliance efforts, ramp up internal processes and reassure the customer base that their personal information is being handled with care.

*Access the ICO’s Data Protection Audit Framework online