The ICO said its checklist is aimed at improving understanding of data protection and making sure sole traders are keeping people’s personal data secure.
It aims to show sole traders how compliant they are by generating a rating based on their responses and provides links to relevant ICO guidance and further information.
It also includes practical suggestions on how to stay in line with the law.
ICO head of assurance Anulka Clarke said: “We are committed to helping sole traders and those who are self-employed to navigate data protection law and improve their practices.
“Handling personal data correctly can add value to businesses and enhance reputations, as it increases public trust.”
Helpline and resources
The new Data Protection Act 2018 and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) came into force in May and applies to all businesses that hold and use customer data.
Fines for those who break it can be significant reaching go up to €20m or 4% of annual global turnover.
A range of resources is available on the ICO website while sole traders and small businesses can also contact the dedicated ICO helpline on 0303 123 1113.
The checklist is available on the ICO website.
