Many businesses face the challenge of managing large amounts of sensitive company and personal data. To keep data safe and protected, they will need a structured and efficient data management system
Subject Access Requests
But what about retrieving that information and handing personal information back to individuals safely and responsibly?
The procedure involved from receiving a request for an individuals’ personal data to sending that data out is called a Subject Access Request (SAR). The right to access personal data is one of the basic principles of data protection laws around the world.
A Subject Access Request can ask for any personal information held by an organisation. It will usually include the date, contact details and details of what information is being requested. Following receipt of the request, the requestors’ identity must first be verified.
In the UK, everyone has the right to request and receive a copy of their personal information held by an organisation.
At IRM Consulting, our team of specialists will provide tailored guidance through to process implementation in order to address these challenges. From logging requests to confirming identity and finally sending data to the requester, IRM will provide a clear, structured strategy.
Good Data Management and Subject Access Requests
Good data management directly impacts an organisation’s ability to process subject access requests efficiently.
IRM can help your organisation correctly store, access, and retrieve information with minimal impact on the business.
Subject access requests can be made verbally, in writing, or through any channel, including social media to any person in the organisation . They can also be made by a third party on behalf of someone else. It is vital that all members of an organisation are aware of their data security responsibilities.
Once a request has been made, it will be the organisation’s responsibility to respond. The response procedure will encompass defining the request, verifying the information, and responding. Working with you, IRM will introduce a tailored procedure to effectively and efficiently respond to Subject Access Requests.
IRM offer a comprehensive approach to data management. We will evaluate the unique structure and needs of your organisation and implement a secure, efficient strategy to keep your data safe and protected.
View All Services
The IRM Process
IRM Consulting uses a network of leading SME & Document Management Specialists which allows us to offer the most experienced consultant to your specific enquiry.
Assesment
We assess your needs to find the ideal consultant team size for your project. We go through your requirements, current status, improvement opportunities, and ensure adherence to data standards while identifying potential threats.
Proposal
After assessment, our consultants create a detailed plan. It tackles concerns, sets milestones, defines roles, and offers a clear roadmap. This guides every step of your project with precision, courtesy of IRM Consulting.
Implementation
In this phase, we implement strategies, conduct analyses, and make necessary adjustments. Effective communication is paramount. Once the Risk Management Plan is finalised and reporting completed, we provide our future Optimisation plan.
Optimisation
We will review outcomes and share findings, identify any additional areas for improvement and propose a plan for future action. This optimisation ensures long-term objectives are met and maintains flexibility and customisation in the consulting process.
Solve Your DSAR Challenges with IRM Consulting
Responding to numerous data subject access requests can present several challenges to your organisation and become an unfortunate drain on resources.
- Timescale
General Data Protection Rules (GDPR) allow organisations one month to respond to a request. This may be extended in certain circumstances where the request is complex. - Verification
It is the organisation’s responsibility to verify the identity of the requester or third party. A breach of this process could allow unauthorised access to personal data. Typical verification methods include multi-factor authentication, where at least two forms of ID are required. - Volume
The volume of requests has increased significantly in recent years. Your business must be equipped to deal with enquiries as they are received.
Time is a valuable commodity in most organisations, so it’s important to have a records management system that allows quick, easy and reliable data access and retrieval. To respond effectively to data requests, it’s important to plan and prepare.
IRM experts are available to streamline your data management needs. Our service provides comprehensive support tailored to your unique scenario. We will thoroughly assess the size and type of information stored and recommend processes that will ensure your organisation is fully compliant and equipped to deal with requests effectively.
Data Driven Examples
Avoid becoming a negative statistic with IRM Consulting
What Our Customers Are Saying
"IRM Consulting exceeded our expectations! Their tailored risk management solutions proved invaluable in safeguarding our business against potential threats. The professionalism and dedication of their consultants were truly commendable. ."
"Outstanding support from IRM Consulting, Their team provided invaluable insights and practical strategies to enhance our cybersecurity framework. Their proactive approach helped us mitigate risks effectively, strengthening our overall resilience. Exceptional service delivery coupled with clear communication made the entire process easy. I would definitely engage their services again."
"Exceptional service from IRM Consulting! Their team demonstrated profound expertise in guiding our company through complex regulatory challenges. Their attention to detail ensured a smooth process from start to finish. Highly recommend their services to any organisation looking for reliable compliance solutions."
Contact us today
Contact our team for a free no obligation quote
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Data Subject Access Requests important?
How long should a Subject Access Request take?
What information can be requested from an organisation?
What are the implications of GDPR on Subject Access Requests?
Can a Subject Access Request be refused?
Clients We Work With
