United Kingdom: Issued ICO report on barriers to adoption of privacy-enhancing technologies

On 13 August 2024, the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) issued a report following an inquiry into the barriers impeding the adoption of privacy-enhancing technologies (PETs). The report identifies challenges such as limited organisational awareness of PETs, technical expertise shortages, regulatory uncertainties, and information asymmetry between PETs suppliers and users. To overcome these challenges, ICO recommends collaborative efforts between the PETs industry and data-sharing organisations, support from funding bodies for pilot projects, the development of certification schemes, guidance from data protection authorities on PETs compliance, and enhanced training and certification programs. These recommendations aim to support responsible PETs adoption across various sectors, addressing both compliance and integration challenges.