Six in ten people questioned as part of the nationwide survey said they have lost control over the way their personal information is collected and processed altogether.
But data security is an increasingly important issue for Britons, who now put protecting their personal information just behind the NHS, national security and environmental issues in a list of social priorities.
And, according to the survey, people know more about their rights under the Data Protection Act than ever before.
Ninety per cent now know they have a right to access the information organisations hold about them – up 13 per cent in the last three years. Eighty-seven per cent of respondents know they have the right to correct any inaccurate information held about them.
The Information Commissioner, Richard Thomas said the results demonstrate how much people value their privacy.
“It is encouraging that so many people are now aware of their rights under the Data Protection Act and are taking the protection of their personal information more seriously,” he said.
Thomas, who on Wednesday called for doctors who lose laptops containing patients’ information to be prosecuted, said organisations have a responsibility to ensure information is kept safe.
“High standards of security and records management will ensure that companies and public authorities retain the trust and confidence of those who use their services.
“By failing to keep personal information secure, organisations not only risk losing the trust of their customers but they also risk enforcement action by my office.”
The ICO can check whether organisations are following good practice when processing personal data and is able to prosecute those who commit criminal offences under the Data Protection Act.
To find out more, visit the ICO website.
