84% of UK small business owners ‘unaware of GDPR'
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84% of UK small business owners and 43% of senior executives of large companies are unaware of the forthcoming General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), according to new research.
Organisations that monitor, store or analyse data will face more onerous obligations to comply, so it is essential to act now as failure to do so could attract significant fines.
The vast majority of senior executives and small business owners claim to have at least some understanding of their industry's legal requirements, however most are not aware of the changes coming into force from May 2018.
The GDPR, which replaces existing European data protection laws from May 2018, is intended to bring greater strength and consistency to the data protection given to individuals within the EU.
The survey, from Shred-it, conducted by Ipsos, also found that of those who say they are aware of the legislation change, just 40% have already begun to take action in preparation for the GDPR.
"As we approach May 2018, it's crucial that organisations of all sizes begin to take a proactive approach in preparing for the incoming GDPR," said Robert Guice, senior vice president, Shred-it EMEAA.
"From implementing stricter internal data protection procedures such as staff training, internal processing audits and reviews of HR policies, to ensuring greater transparency around the use of personal information, businesses must be aware of how the legislation will affect their company to ensure they are fully compliant."
Click here to find out more about your duties in the lead up to May 2018.