General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) applies to the processing of personal data. It applies in Ireland and across the EU. Irish legislation is governed by GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018.

A breach of the data protection laws occurs where personal information is disclosed either intentionally or negligently in the

• Collection
• Storage
• Retrieval
• Consulting
• Disclosing
• Sharing
• Erasing
• Or destruction of personal data

Other examples of breaches include data obtained without consent or the unlawful alteration of data. The person must be identified or identifiable from the breach of GDPR. This does not apply in respect of purely personal or household activities.

Personal data can be in written form, photos, audio or video recordings but the law only applies to situations where the information is processed by automated means or as part of a filing system.

Personal data should be used by companies or organisations for the specific purpose for which it was provided. Generally, your data must not be released without your consent. Personal data relates to information about a living person.

Certain special categories are afforded additional protection such as data relating to:

• Racial or ethnic origin
• Political opinions
• Religious or philosophical beliefs
• Genetic data
• Data concerning health
• And certain other categories

Companies and organisations must ensure that the data they collect is accurate and must update or delete any incorrect or data which is out of date. Data should only be kept as long as necessary for the purpose listed in the privacy notice and data must be stored securely.

If there has been a breach of GDPR you can generally make a claim if you are living within the EU. You can also make a complaint to the Data Protection Commissioner and we can assist you in this regard. We have extensive knowledge and vast experience in the area of GDPR.

If you require advice or representation please contact us from the options available below.