European Commission promises data privacy refresh

Viviane Reding wants a revamp of European data protection rules

European information society and media commissioner Viviane Reding has used today's Data Privacy Day to propose a modernisation of the European Union's privacy rules in order to keep pace with advances in technology.

The European Commission warned in a statement released today that burgeoning technologies such as behavioural advertising, social networking sites and smart chips are forcing an update of data protection rules to ensure "the right to privacy, legal certainty for industry, and the take-up of new technologies".

"Innovation is important in today's society, but should not go at the expense of people's fundamental right to privacy," said Reding.

"Now we have to make sure that the general data protection rules are up to date with technology and as comprehensive as the Lisbon Treaty requires.

"EU rules should allow everyone to realise their right to know when their personal data can be lawfully processed, in any area of life, whether boarding a plane, opening a bank account or surfing the internet, and to say no to it whenever they want."

The UK's Information Commissioner's Office yesterday highlighted the continued challenge facing data protection regulators in member states, revealing that it had received over 800 reports of data security breaches in the past two years.