ICO Registration Service

Compliance with the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) is an essential part of a business’ data protection responsibilities

Complying with GDPR is vital for ensuring that your business remains compliant and demonstrates to the public and potential clients that you are aware of your data protection obligations.

Every sole trader, business or organisation that processes personal data must register with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO). This responsibility affects large and small businesses, is detrimental to brand trust, and can incur a costly fine.

With our ICO Registration service, you can be sure that we will make sure your business is fully compliant with GDPR by completing ICO registration on your behalf. Get started today with a free ICO Registration Questionnaire.

ICO Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ICO?

The ICO is the UK’s independent body created to uphold information rights in the public interest by promoting openness by public bodies and data privacy for individuals.

Am I subject to an exemption?

The exemptions only apply in very specific circumstances. If your business can rely on an exemption, it will not need to register with the ICO. Your business would be exempt if it is processing personal data purely for one (or more) of the following purposes:

  • Staff administration (including to run your organisation’s payroll)
  • Advertising, marketing and public relations in connection with your own business
  • Accounts and records (such as invoices or payments)
  • Personal, family or household affairs
  • Performing judicial junctions
  • Performing elected representative functions
  • Maintaining a public register
  • Processing personal information without an automated system such as a computer

What are the risks of non-compliance?

Failure to register your business, failing to renew a registration or registering under an incorrect registration tier can result in a maximum fine of £4,350. A public list of businesses that have received a penalty notice for not paying the fee is kept by the ICO.

Failing to register can also damage your brand reputation as it does not demonstrate to the public and potential clients that, as a business, you are aware of your data protection obligations.

Why do I need to register?

As a business, you are responsible for protecting the personal data that you process. If you process personal data within your business and are not exempt from registration, you may receive a fine.

The ICO keeps a public list of businesses that have received a penalty notice for not paying the fee. It is therefore essential that you can correctly identify whether your business needs to register.

What does Brexit mean for GDPR?

Although the UK has left the EU, GDPR obligations are not going away. As of the 31st December 2020, the GDPR were brought into UK law as the UK GDPR. Data protection obligations are therefore here to stay.

Speak To Our Team of Experts Today

Declan Goodwin

Commerical & Technology Partner

Declan is a Partner in the Commercial & Technology team. He’s highly experienced in advising national and global organisations regarding commercial contracts and regulatory compliance, as well as fast-growth early-stage companies. He also supports clients with intellectual property transactions, data protection and competition law.

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