The UK’s data protection rules are changing again Post-Brexit. With the Data (Use and Access) Act 2025 (DUAA) now law, businesses face new obligations and opportunities. While the foundations of UK GDPR remain, the government is introducing reforms designed to make data use more flexible while strengthening safeguards.
So what do these changes mean for your organisation?
What’s Changing?
Here are some of the most significant updates:
– Automated Decisions — companies can rely more on AI-driven decisions, but must provide transparency and the option for human review (gov.co.uk).
– Access Requests — new “stop-the-clock” rules give organisations more time to respond if further details are needed.
– Children’s Data — stricter requirements to design digital services with child safety in mind.
– Research Flexibility — businesses can use data for wider research purposes under certain safeguards.
– Legitimate Interests — new lawful bases make it easier to process data for things like safeguarding and crime prevention.
– International Transfers — simpler guidance and rules for moving data across borders.
– Cookies & Tracking — some low-risk technologies can now be used without explicit consent.
Why It Matters for Your Business
The reforms are intended to reduce red tape while keeping high standards of privacy protection. But there are important compliance steps to consider:
– Review and update privacy policies to reflect new rules.
– Train teams on handling automated decision-making and access requests.
– Update cookie banners and consent practices to align with the exemptions.
– Monitor ICO updates on international data transfers (ico.org.uk).
– Check if your research or innovation projects can now benefit from wider processing permissions.
Post-Brexit Context
The UK is seeking more independence from EU rules, while keeping its “adequacy” status with the EU. This balance is crucial for businesses trading across Europe. Firms should stay alert to future adequacy reviews by the EU, as these could impact cross-border operations (lawsociety.org.uk).
What To Do Next
Now is the time to:
– Audit your current data practices.
– Map where personal data flows across borders.
– Engage with your Data Protection Officer (DPO) or IT/security partner.
– Stay tuned for further ICO guidance as the DUAA is phased in.
Final Word
The UK’s post-Brexit data reforms are designed to support innovation while protecting citizens’ rights. For most organisations, this means a mix of new opportunities and fresh compliance tasks.
At 4th Platform, we help businesses stay ahead of digital and regulatory change. If you’d like advice on how these rules affect your organisation, contact us today to get started!
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