The right to restriction lets you ask us to limit how we use your personal data in specific circumstances. When processing is restricted, we can usually still store the data but not otherwise use it, except in limited cases.
When you can ask for restriction
- You have contested the accuracy of data, while we check it.
- The processing is unlawful but you prefer restriction to erasure.
- We no longer need the data, but you need us to keep it for a legal claim.
- You have objected to processing, while we consider your objection.
What restriction means
While a restriction is in place, we will generally only store the data. We may still process it with your consent, for a legal claim, to protect someone else's rights, or for important public-interest reasons. We will tell you before lifting any restriction.
How to ask
Contact our data protection team, explain which data and why you want it restricted. We will confirm whether the right applies and what we have done. Where we have shared the data, we will tell relevant third parties about the restriction where possible.
If we cannot restrict
Some data must keep being processed to meet legal obligations. If so, we will explain why and what alternatives may help.
See also: Can I get my data in a portable format?, Can I object to how you use my data? and Making a complaint: your options and our process.