As a business owner, you are likely familiar with the benefits of a CCTV system. The better-known advantages include CCTV cameras aiding crime prevention, record keeping and safeguarding staff. However, our data protection law empowers the Information Commissioner\u2019s Office (ICO) to fine organisations that fail to operate data protection-compliant CCTV systems. This article will explore the ICO\u2019s expectations so your business can avoid breaching the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) while using your CCTV system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The UK GDPR and ICO do not make it too risky to use video surveillance systems. However, your organisation can greatly reduce the risk of breaching data protection regulations by implementing appropriate measures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Let us explore several measures below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The GDPR treats CCTV footage<\/a> as \u2018personal data\u2019. Furthermore, the GDPR and ICO extend greater protection of personal data over other data. CCTV footage is no exception, as organisations can record an individual\u2019s movements and actions without their prior express consent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Accordingly, the ICO expects your organisation to consider whether a less intrusive method is sufficient for your goals. Failure to do so increases the risk that your CCTV system is for an unlawful purpose. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Suppose you run a small clothing business with three branches. In recent weeks, you have suffered several instances of shoplifting and believe it may be due to customers hiding clothes in their bags when going into changing rooms. Accordingly, you may consider whether CCTV may help determine if customers steal clothes in the changing rooms. <\/p>\n\n\n\n However, this is unlikely to be GDPR-compliant. There is an expectation of privacy within changing rooms (and bathrooms) due to the nature of the room. However, the clothing business may consider an alternative, less intrusive method. For example, placing electronic tags on clothes. This avoids using a non-compliant CCTV system and means concealed clothing will beep at the exit (with tags being a deterrent). <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n Continue reading this article below the form\n <\/i>\n<\/a>\n