Technology such as smart phones has made it easier than ever before for individuals to be located. Organisations use this data to offer personalised services, such as navigation apps or location-specific news content on websites.

Aimed at both individuals and organisations, the guidance will assist individuals in understanding how information relating to their location is collected and processed, and provides clarity to organisations on their obligations regarding such data. The overriding principle of the guidance centres on the protection of the individual’s right to data privacy.

Publishing the guidance, the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner advised users of smart phone apps, in particular, to familiarise themselves with the terms attaching to the downloading and use of apps and where location data is collected to be aware of the purposes for which it is being used. As the rate of technological innovation continues apace, more and more location data is being collected and transmitted and individuals should be vigilant of how this information is collected, processed and re-used.

Guidance for individuals

Guidance for organisations and data controllers

** Still with data protection matters, the eighth data protection principle requires organisations that want to transfer personal data outside of the EU to assess whether that country ensures an adequate level of protection for individuals.

The Interim Deputy Commissioner at the UK's Information Commissioner's Office has published an article on the what, why and how of transferring data to the USA. It's a very readable, even if you don't have a great interest in data protection and states quite bluntly, "If your organisation is still relying on Safe Harbor as the legal basis for transferring personal data to the US, you need to review your position." The newer Privacy Shield requirements apply to all EU states transferring information to the US.

*** Still with data protection issues, the UK's ICO has also posted a webinar that looks at some of the key issues concerning data in the legal profession. Obviously, the references are to UK legislation but the principles of data protection are EU-wide and the webinar may be of most use to those law firms with operations in the UK.

Legal-Island's Annual Data Protection Update in Ireland is on 29th September at the Hilton Hotel, Charlemont Place, Dublin.

Speakers:

• Anna Broderick, Partner, Eversheds
• Vivienne Mee, Founder, VMForensics Ltd
• Seamus Carroll, Head of the Data Protection Unit, Department of Justice and Equality
• Andy Harbison, Director, Grant Thornton

For a full programme, speaker bios and to book your place click here