The ICO would like to use cookies to store information on your computer, to improve our website. One of the cookies we use is essential for parts of the site to operate and has already been set. You may delete and block all cookies from this site, but parts of the site will not work. To find out more about the cookies we use and how to delete them, see our privacy notice.

Information Commissioners Office logo
Accessibility | Help | Contact us
Home

News

Social networking

Your
details

Exam
results

Unwanted
marketing

The ICO is here to help

Intro | Taking action | How we can help | Other people's stories | More info
bar
Taking action
Find out how to keep your details safe when you're using social networking sites.
dotted_line
bar
Other people's stories

Read about other people's experiences of using social networking sites.

dotted_line
bar
More info

Find out about other sites offering help and advice.

dotted_line

How we can help

The Data Protection Act gives you the right to know what information is held about you and sets out rules to make sure your information is handled properly.

Social networkingPart of the Information Commissioner's job is to help you protect your details by enforcing the Data Protection Act.

We suggest that you follow our tips on how to keep your details safe online.

But if you think your information hasn't been kept safe, or has been used in a way that you didn't expect or want, it is possible that the Data Protection Act has been breached, and we may be able to help.

If this is the case, you should:

Step 1: Write to the place (like the website) that holds the information about you, and ask them to remove or correct it. You can use email. Keep a copy of whatever you send, and write down the date you sent it.

Step 2: If that doesn't work, or you don't get a response after 28 days, you can call the Information Commissioner's Office on 0303 123 1113. If someone has broken the rules, we may be able to investigate on your behalf.

→ Other people's stories

Copyright & re-use of materials | Privacy statement | Disclaimer