Jersey information watchdog reports surge in complaints

The Jersey Office of the Information Commissioner has released its 2025 annual report, revealing a 57% surge in complaints and inquiries, totaling 135 cases. Public authorities, regulators, and statutory bodies accounted for approximately one-third of these complaints despite representing only 1% of registered organisations.

One notable incident involved the Department for the Economy, which refused to release a Financial Investigation manual. During the ongoing appeal process, the States of Jersey (SPA) deleted electronic copies of the withheld information, leaving only a master copy with the Law Officers’ Department. Information Commissioner Paul Vane noted that information subject to a live appeal must not be destroyed.

Common issues cited in the report include difficulties accessing personal information, excessive redactions, and failures to respond. Commissioner Vane also issued warnings regarding emerging threats from cyber attacks and artificial intelligence, specifically noting that deepfakes have already been used in Jersey to deceive, defraud, or harass.