Welcome to the ICO's July 2026 public advice e-newsletter
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Public advice newsletter

Welcome to the June edition of our public advice newsletter, where you can find out more about the action we’re taking to protect the public from nuisance marketing and wider data protection issues.
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We have fined genetic testing company 23andMe £2.31 million for failing to implement appropriate security measures to protect the personal information of UK users, following a large-scale cyber attack in 2023.

This breach exposed sensitive personal information, family histories, and even health conditions of thousands of people in the UK. As one of those impacted told us: once this information is out there, it cannot be changed or reissued like a password or credit card number.
Information Commissioner John Edwards

John Edwards, UK Information Commissioner, said: “ We carried out this investigation in collaboration with our Canadian counterparts, and it highlights the power of international cooperation in holding global companies to account. Data protection doesn’t stop at borders, and neither do we when it comes to protecting the rights of UK residents.”
Learn all the details about our joint investigation
 
 
The backs of two police officers with vests saying 'police' on them

Police force reprimanded for CCTV failings
We have issued a reprimand to Greater Manchester Police (GMP) following failures in its storage and handling of CCTV footage.  

When responding to a request for some footage of a person held in custody, the force realised two hours of it was missing.

Our investigation found a misunderstanding between GMP staff about CCTV responsibilities and a lack of policies within GMP about quality checks of footage.
Find out more about the reprimand
A small girl holding a woman's hand.

London council accidentally shared the information of 2,342 children
The London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham left exposed the personal information of 6,528 people for almost two years. Of those, 2,342 were children.

The personal data breach occurred when the council responded to a freedom of information (FOI) request. The response, published on the council’s website and WhatDoTheyKnow.com, contained 10 workbooks which included personal information.  

We have  issued a reprimand to the council which details the recommendations we expect it to take.
Read more about our action
Image of a smart watch, phone and speaker

Your household smart products must respect your privacy
From smart speakers and fitness trackers to Wi-Fi fridges and interconnected air fryers, smart products have integrated seamlessly into people’s homes and everyday lives.

We have published our first guidance for developers and manufacturers of smart products, settting out clearly how people's personal information should be collected, used and shared responsibly.  
Learn how to keep your information safe when using smart products
Information Commissioner's Office
Registered office: Wycliffe House, Water Lane, Wilmslow, Cheshire SK9 5AF
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