LONDON, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- The British government announced on Monday that it will update and strengthen data protection laws through a new Data Protection Bill, giving the public greater control over personal data.
Under the plans, individuals will have more control over their data by having the right to be forgotten and ask for their personal data to be erased, according to a statement of intent from the government.
This will also mean that people can ask social media channels to delete information they posted in their childhood. Businesses will also be supported to ensure they are able to manage and secure data properly.
The data protection regulator, the Information Commissioner's Office, will be given more power to defend consumer interests and issue higher fines, of up to 17 million pounds (22.18 million U.S. dollars), or four percent of global turnover, in cases of the most serious data breaches.
"The Bill will give people more control over their data, require more consent for its use, and prepare Britain for Brexit. We have some of the best data science in the world and this new law will help it to thrive," said Matt Hancock, Britain's Minister of State for Digital.
The move aims at providing everyone with the confidence that their data will be managed securely and safely. Research has showed that more than 80 percent of people feel that they do not have complete control over their data online.
