The ICO is the UK's independent public body set up to promote access to official information and protect personal information. The Ministry of Justice is our sponsoring department within the Government.
The ICO’s three regional offices were established in 2003 as a direct response to the devolution process in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. The offices enable us to provide relevant services where the legislation or administrative structure is different as a result.
The ICO enforces and oversees the Data Protection Act, the Freedom of Information Act, the Environmental Information Regulations, and the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations.
Our main functions are educating and influencing (we promote good practice and give information and advice), resolving problems (we resolve eligible complaints from people who think their rights have been breached) and enforcing (we use legal sanctions against those who ignore or refuse to accept their obligations).
Looking after your rights and making sure organisations comply with the law is only part of what we do - research is another important part of our work. It provides us with a deeper understanding of policy and how it affects you.
Research projects more than two years old are held in the archive section. If you are unable to find an older piece of research please contact the office.
Our thoughts on current topics and policies are a vital part of our role. Our press releases cover a wide range of subjects, and we also offer our views on the latest development in data protection and freedom of information.
As part of the ICO's work, we comment on significant external consultations that relate to data protection and freedom of information. We also invite comments about significant documents we produce about our work.
If you work for us, you'll have more than just a job. You'll be part of a team of people who are genuinely committed to making a difference. And you'll also enjoy a great range of benefits and opportunities.
The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) provides information in French and Spanish that it considers to be particularly relevant to an international audience.
Please be aware that the information contained on these French and Spanish language pages are not a complete translation of the information and guidance we offer in English. It contains details which we consider to be of particular interest to an international audience.
The ICO also provides more extensive information in Welsh. Further details about the type of information we provide in Welsh can be found in our Welsh Language Scheme.
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