CCTV cameras are seen as an everyday occurrence, with systems continuing to enjoy public support as they go about their day-to-day business.
Research carried out by the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has shown that the public expect CCTV to be used responsibly with appropriate safeguards in place.
Images of people are covered by the Data Protection Act and, as one local business owner found out recently, there is a need to register cameras with the ICO.
The case highlighted that the business owner was using in-store CCTV cameras as part of their business but was unaware that they had to register them with the ICO.
Richard Davies, Account Executive at BHIB Insurance Brokers, said: “The ICO sent letters explaining that the business was in violation of the Act and needed to register the cameras and pay the £35 annual fee. While the business owner received the ICO’s letters, they chose to ignore them, as they thought they were spam.”
The business owner pleaded guilty to violating Section 17 of the Data Protection Act and was fined £200 and ordered to pay £439.28 in prosecution costs and a £20 victim surcharge.
Steve Eckersley, Head of ICO Enforcement, said: “The message here is simple, if you are a business operating CCTV cameras you must be registered with the ICO.
“Business owners need to be aware of their obligations when dealing with people’s personal data and this includes footage from CCTV cameras.
“Being ignorant of the law and the regulator is no excuse; you could end up spending a day in court and receiving a fine, as well as suffering reputational damage to your business. This could all be avoided with some due care and attention.”
The ICO’s CCTV Code of Practice gives guidance to companies using CCTV and business owners can also learn more about any data protection issues by visiting the ICO’s website
To learn more about BHIB, contact Richard Davies on 01604 258713, visit bhibinsurance.co.uk or follow BHIB on twitter @bhibinsurance