What does the Data Protection Act 2018 govern?

The Data Protection Act 2018 is primarily concerned with the handling and protection of personal data within the UK. This legislation outlines the principles and rules regarding how personal information should be collected, processed, stored, and shared. It aims to ensure that individuals' privacy is respected and that their personal data is managed in accordance with their rights under the law.

The Act aligns with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which is a framework established across the European Union, ensuring that personal data is protected consistently across member states. By setting forth guidelines on consent, data subject rights, and the obligations of data controllers and processors, the Act plays a crucial role in safeguarding individuals from misuse of their personal data.

In essence, the Data Protection Act 2018 not only defines what constitutes personal data but also mandates how organizations must treat this information, reinforcing the importance of privacy and data protection in today's digital society.