Haines & Company

ICO consultation on the draft biometric data guidance

Talk to an expert

The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) has produced guidance on biometric data and biometric technologies.


The draft guidance looks at the definition of biometric data under the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and how data protection law applies when using biometric recognition systems.


Biometric recognition systems are tools used by businesses to verify customers' identity in the digital world. For example, facial recognition technology, voice recognition, fingerprint scanning, etc.
The ICO's draft guidance covers:

  • what biometric data is;
  • when it is considered special category data;
  • its use in biometric recognition systems; and
  • the data protection requirements you need to comply with.
    This guidance is for organisations that use or are considering using biometric recognition systems. It is also for vendors of these systems. The aim of the guide is to help businesses and organisations understand the law and the ICO's recommendations for good practice.
    See: [Guidance on biometric data | ICO](https://ico.org.uk/for-organisations/uk-gdpr-guidance-and-resources/guidance-on-biometric-data/)
May 21, 2025
New Immigration Changes: What Businesses Need to Know

The government announced major changes last week to the immigration system as part of its plan to reduce net migration and encourage more home-grown skills. If you run a business, even if you don’t currently recruit from overseas, it’s worth understanding what’s changing and how it could affect your future hiring plans.

Read article
May 19, 2025
Don’t Miss Out: Parents of Teenagers Need to Extend Child Benefit by 31 August

If you’re a parent of a 16 to 19-year-old who’s staying in full-time education or training, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is reminding families to extend their Child Benefit claim by 31 August to avoid the payments stopping altogether.

Read article
Made in Webflow