Practice group news

New powers granted to Information Commissioner's Office
14 January 2010

EU-wide patent a step closer?
4 December 2009

Asda clashes with Specsavers in IP dispute
5 November 2009

Exclamation marks cannot be registered, court ruling states
7 October 2009

Legal 500 demonstrates strong support from clients
28 September 2009

Websites 'breaking consumer protection laws'
11 September 2009

UK privacy of communications laws 'need revision'

15 April 2009



Laws in the UK to protect the privacy of communications are insufficient, the European Commission has ruled, with some websites collating details of users' habits and preferences without their knowledge. Referred to as Phorm technology, it involves the tracking of the use of certain websites, with targeted advertising displayed to the user as a result.

"We have been following the Phorm case for some time and have concluded that there are problems in the way the UK has implemented parts of EU rules on the confidentiality of communications," revealed EU Telecoms Commissioner Viviane Reding. She added that the UK's laws need to be amended to allow proper sanctions to be made against such behaviour.

At present, UK law stipulates that it is an offence to intercept communications intentionally. Nonetheless, it is the instances of when access to such communications is given which the Commission believes should be subject to review.

If you require legal advice, for either your private affairs or organisation, please call Buckinghamshire based B P Collins Solicitors on 01753 889995, complete the online enquiry form or email enquiries@bpcollins.co.uk.

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