Data Privacy Regulations UK: Key Laws, GDPR & PECR Changes

Understanding data privacy regulations in the UK is essential for any business that handles customer or employee information. With frequent updates to legislation and the growing importance of data protection, staying compliant isn’t just a legal requirement—it’s a business necessity. In this blog, we’ll break down the key laws, explain how they apply to your business, and highlight the changes you need to prepare for, including the new law on 19 June 2025.

What to know about data privacy regulations UK

Data privacy regulations in the UK are built on a framework of laws that aim to protect individuals' rights over their personal data. These laws apply to any organisation that collects, stores, or processes personal information, regardless of size or industry. Whether you’re managing customer records or employee files, you must follow the rules set out by the UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018.

The UK GDPR mirrors the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation but is tailored to UK law. It regulates how businesses collect, use, and store personal data. The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) oversees compliance and can issue penalties for violations. Businesses must also comply with the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR), which cover electronic marketing and the use of cookies.

Key compliance steps for businesses under UK data privacy law

If you're unsure where to start with compliance, here are the most important steps to follow. Each one helps reduce risk and ensures your business meets its legal obligations.

Step #1: Understand what personal data you collect

You need to know what personal data you collect, why you collect it, and how it’s used. This includes names, emails, phone numbers, and even IP addresses. Mapping your data is the first step to compliance.

Step #2: Review your lawful basis for processing

Under UK GDPR, you must have a lawful reason to process personal data. This could be consent, a contract, or a legal obligation. Make sure your reasons are documented and appropriate.

Step #3: Update your privacy notices

Your privacy notice must clearly explain what data you collect, how it’s used, and the rights individuals have. It should be easy to understand and accessible on your website or app.

Step #4: Train your staff

Everyone in your business should understand their data protection responsibilities. Training helps prevent mistakes and ensures consistent handling of personal data.

Step #5: Prepare for data subject requests

Individuals have the right to access their data, request corrections, or ask for deletion. You need a process in place to respond within one month.

Step #6: Secure your data properly

Security is a key requirement. Use appropriate technical and organisational measures to protect data from unauthorised access, loss, or destruction.

Step #7: Monitor for changes in legislation

Data protection laws evolve. Stay updated on changes like the law on 19 June 2025 to ensure ongoing compliance.

Key benefits of following UK data privacy regulations

Complying with data privacy laws isn’t just about avoiding fines. It also brings real business advantages:

• Builds trust with customers by showing you take data protection seriously
• Reduces the risk of data breaches and associated costs
• Helps avoid penalties from the ICO for non-compliance
• Improves internal data management and record-keeping
• Supports smoother operations when working with partners or vendors
• Makes it easier to expand into EU markets with aligned practices

How GDPR and PECR differ in scope and enforcement

While GDPR and PECR are often mentioned together, they cover different areas. GDPR focuses on the protection of personal data, while PECR deals with privacy in electronic communications. This includes rules about marketing emails, cookies, and tracking technologies.

PECR applies even if you’re not processing personal data, such as when using cookies that track user behaviour. It also sets rules for direct marketing via email, phone, or SMS. Non-compliance with PECR can lead to fines, just like with GDPR, and enforcement is also handled by the ICO.

Understanding the difference helps you apply the right rules in the right situations. For example, sending a marketing email requires both GDPR consent and PECR compliance.

What’s changing in UK data protection laws in 2025?

The UK government plans to introduce new legislation on 19 June 2025. This update aims to simplify compliance for businesses while maintaining strong protections for individuals. It may adjust how consent is handled, how data is transferred internationally, and how the ICO enforces rules.

If your business processes personal data, you’ll need to review your practices to align with the new law. The change could affect your privacy notices, consent mechanisms, and data sharing agreements. Staying ahead of these updates ensures you’re not caught off guard.

Practical steps to apply data privacy rules in your business

Applying data privacy regulations in day-to-day operations means turning legal requirements into practical actions. Start by assigning someone to oversee data protection—this doesn’t have to be a full-time role, but it should be someone with authority and knowledge.

Next, review your current processes. Are you collecting more data than necessary? Are you storing it securely? Are you deleting it when it’s no longer needed? These questions help you align with the principles of data minimisation and storage limitation.

Finally, document everything. Keep records of your data processing activities, security measures, and staff training. These records show that you’re taking compliance seriously and can help during audits or investigations.

Best practices for managing data privacy compliance

To stay compliant and reduce risk, follow these proven practices:

• Regularly audit your data processing activities and update records
• Limit access to personal data to only those who need it
• Use encryption and secure backups to protect sensitive information
• Review vendor contracts to ensure third-party compliance
• Respond quickly to data breaches and notify the ICO if required
• Stay informed with updates from the ICO and legal advisors

Following these steps helps you stay compliant and protects your business from unnecessary risk.

How Sonar IT can help with data privacy regulations UK

Are you a business with 15–40 endpoints looking to improve your data protection practices? Growing businesses often struggle to keep up with changing laws, especially when IT resources are limited. That’s where we come in.

At Sonar IT, we help businesses like yours stay compliant with UK data privacy regulations. From reviewing your current systems to implementing secure solutions, our team provides expert support tailored to your needs. Contact us today to get started.

Frequently asked questions

What’s the difference between GDPR and UK GDPR?

The UK GDPR is the UK’s version of the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation. It came into effect after Brexit and applies to businesses operating in the UK. While the core principles remain the same, the UK GDPR is tailored to fit UK law and is enforced by the ICO.

Both versions regulate how you process personal data, but the UK GDPR includes specific provisions for international data transfers and supervisory authority roles. Businesses must ensure they comply with the correct version depending on where they operate.

Do data privacy laws apply to small businesses?

Yes, data protection laws apply to all businesses, regardless of size. If you collect or process personal data, even for a small number of customers or employees, you must comply with the UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018.

Small businesses are expected to follow the same principles as larger organisations. However, the ICO offers guidance to help smaller firms meet their obligations in a practical and proportionate way.

What is PECR, and how does it affect marketing?

PECR stands for the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations. It sets rules for electronic marketing, cookies, and communications like emails and texts. Even if you comply with GDPR, you still need to follow PECR.

For example, you must get consent before sending marketing emails to individuals. You also need to inform users about cookies on your website and give them the option to accept or reject them. Non-compliance can result in fines from the ICO.

How can I respond to a data subject access request?

A data subject access request (DSAR) allows individuals to ask what personal data you hold about them. You must respond within one month and provide the information in a clear format.

You should include details like the purpose of processing, categories of data, and any third parties the data is shared with. It’s important to verify the identity of the requester before sharing any information.

What happens if I don’t comply with data protection laws?

Failure to comply can lead to serious consequences, including financial penalties and reputational damage. The ICO has the power to investigate and issue fines for breaches.

Beyond fines, non-compliance can result in loss of customer trust and legal action. It’s essential to take your protection obligations seriously and implement the necessary controls.

Will the new law in June 2025 change my responsibilities?

Yes, the new law on 19 June 2025 is expected to introduce changes that affect how businesses manage data. It may simplify some processes but also add new requirements.

You’ll need to review your current practices and update them to align with the new legislation. Keeping up with these changes ensures you remain compliant and avoid penalties.