Consumers and small businesses will benefit from better deals and savings through innovative services, thanks to new Smart Data laws proposed by government.
Smart Data enables businesses to provide consumers with more intuitive, easy-to-use services such as better account and bill management, switching services for savings, and targeted support for vulnerable consumers, by allowing businesses to share customer data with authorised third-party providers in an easy and secure way. For example, Smart Data has facilitated services which could alert a vulnerable consumer’s trusted contact (such as a family member or friend) if there is unusual activity on a bank account.
New laws will see more sectors, such as communications like broadband, taking advantage of Smart Data to drive competition and innovation, while providing more choices and lower prices for consumers. The powers would make it possible for government to mandate industry involvement in Smart Data initiatives across the economy where they are not participating already, subject to sector-specific assessment and consultation.
