Safeguards policy

Personal data must be accurate and where necessary kept up to date.

Where we become aware that personal data is inaccurate or out of date, having regard to the purpose for which it is being processed, we will take every reasonable step to ensure that data is erased or rectified without delay. If we decide not to either erase or rectify it, we will document our decision.

We, as far as possible, distinguish between personal data based on facts and personal data based on personal assessments or opinions and mark the file to reflect the distinction. There are circumstances where this is not possible.

We, where relevant, and as far as possible, distinguish between personal data relating to different categories of data subject, such as:

• people suspected of committing an offence or being about to commit an offence

• people convicted of a criminal offence

• known or suspected victims of a criminal offence

• witnesses or other people with information about offences

We only do this where the personal data is relevant to the purpose being pursued. We do this by marking the file.

We take reasonable steps to ensure that personal data which is inaccurate, incomplete or out of date is not transmitted or made available for any of the law enforcement purposes. We do this by verifying any data before sending it externally. We also provide the recipient with the necessary information we hold to assess the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the data.

If we discover, after transmission that the data was incorrect or should not have been transmitted, we will tell the recipient as soon as possible.

We document our decision to make personal data available for any of the law enforcement purposes.