ICO (Information Commissioner's Office)

The United Kingdom's independent regulatory authority responsible for upholding information rights, enforcing data protection laws, and promoting good practice in information handling. The ICO enforces UK GDPR, the Data Protection Act 2018, PECR (Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations), Freedom of Information Act, and other information-related legislation. The ICO's powers include investigating complaints, conducting audits, issuing fines and enforcement notices, prosecuting criminal offenses, providing guidance and codes of practice, and promoting public awareness. The ICO has been particularly active in privacy enforcement, issuing substantial fines for breaches and publishing detailed guidance on topics like cookies, international transfers, and data subject rights. Organizations operating in the UK should monitor ICO guidance, register with the ICO if required, respond promptly to ICO inquiries, and consider ICO positions when interpreting UK privacy requirements. The ICO balances enforcement with education and support for compliance.