Information Commissioner’s Office

The UK regulator for data protection and freedom of information.

Category: Public bodies and agencies Regulators Technology and data

Abbreviation: ICO

Also used as: data protection regulator, information rights regulator, privacy regulator

Official website: Visit the ICO

Last reviewed: 3 August 2026

The Information Commissioner’s Office is the UK regulator for data protection and information rights. It oversees compliance with data protection law, freedom of information rules and related privacy obligations. It may appear in summaries involving public-sector data use, artificial intelligence, privacy, cyber incidents, freedom of information, online services and regulatory enforcement.

Related terms

Artificial IntelligenceTechnology that can perform tasks normally associated with human intelligence, such as analysing information or generating responses.Department for Science, Innovation and TechnologyThe UK Government department responsible for science, research, innovation, technology and digital policy.Office of CommunicationsThe UK regulator for communications services, broadcasting, postal services, spectrum and online services.