The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has issued new guidance for employers on monitoring employees, emphasizing the need to balance business interests with employee privacy. Research by the ICO indicates significant concern among workers about being monitored, with many finding it intrusive and potentially deterring them from accepting jobs. Emily Keaney, deputy commissioner for regulatory policy at the ICO, highlighted the importance of transparency and fairness in building trust and creating a positive work environment.

Amazon is offering a free 30-day trial for its Kindle Unlimited subscription service, which provides access to millions of eBooks, audiobooks, and magazines. The regular subscription costs £9.49 per month, but the trial allows users to explore the service without any initial cost. The article also highlights various 99p Kindle book deals and explains the benefits of Kindle Unlimited, including the ability to borrow up to 10 titles at a time. Additionally, it clarifies that Kindle Unlimited is separate from Amazon Prime and provides instructions on how to sign up, use, and cancel the service.

The financial services sector is an early adopter of intelligent automation, facing governance challenges ahead of other industries. The article discusses the sector's pioneering role and the implications of these challenges.

The UK's Public Accounts Committee has criticized the Home Office for its slow progress in combating fraud, noting an increase in incidents since 2017 and a decline in charges and summonses. The government's delayed fraud strategy and the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Bill are discussed, along with the costs associated with their implementation. The report highlights the failure of Action Fraud in addressing fraud crimes and the lack of mandatory reimbursement for fraud victims. Labour has proposed measures to combat fraud, including a ban on number spoofing from overseas.

The article reviews and compares 16 sunscreens for kids, babies, and toddlers, highlighting their pros, cons, and key specifications. It emphasizes the importance of using sunscreen with at least SPF 30, broad-spectrum protection, and suitability for sensitive skin. The article includes expert advice from Dr Derrick Phillips on the necessity of daily SPF application for children. The NHS recommends protecting children from March to October with sunscreen, clothing, and shade. The sunscreens are evaluated based on factors such as ease of application, water resistance, and ingredient safety, with options to suit various budgets.

The article reviews the best tower fans for 2024, highlighting their features, pros, and cons. The Levoit Classic LTF-F362 is praised for its price and features, while the Dyson Cool Tower Fan is noted for its design and quiet operation despite its high cost. The Challenge Digital Grey Tower Fan is appreciated for its appearance and ease of assembly. The Honeywell Comfort Control Tower Fan is efficient but slightly noisy. The HOMCOM 30 inch Tower Fan is valued for its price and functionality, though it can be unstable. The Status 32” Tower Fan With Timer is easy to assemble and effective but has slight noise issues. The B&Q White 3-speed Tower Fan is attractive and affordable but lacks a remote control.

The Crown Commercial Service (CCS) has introduced a new procurement framework for UK public sector organizations to buy technology products and services, aimed at supporting small and medium-sized businesses. Announced on 10 October, the framework includes eight lots covering various technology needs and emphasizes sustainability, including refurbished hardware and recycling options. The agreement, which consolidates three previous frameworks, will go live on 31 October and run for 30 months, with an option to extend for another 18 months. The CCS aims to provide a flexible, quick, and compliant procurement process, supporting the government's agenda for sustainability and SME participation.

The UK court system's digital transformation, led by HM Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS), has faced significant setbacks, costing over £1bn with only 24 of 44 projects completed. The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) criticized the project for technical issues, delays, and poor user engagement, exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic. The Common Platform, a key component, has caused additional stress for court staff, leading to strikes. Despite these challenges, HMCTS maintains that the reforms are essential for modernizing the courts. Suppliers like Capgemini, Solirus Consulting, Kainos, and Atos have been involved in the project, which continues to face funding issues.

The Data Protection and Digital Information Bill, intended to replace the EU's GDPR post-Brexit, was debated in the UK Parliament. While the government claims the bill will reduce costs and complexity for businesses, opposition MPs and industry experts express concerns about its impact on data adequacy with the EU, individual rights, and the independence of the Information Commissioner’s Office. The bill aims to simplify compliance for small businesses and enhance the use of AI, but critics argue it does not significantly deviate from existing GDPR frameworks and may increase legal complexities and costs.

The UK court system's digital transformation, led by HM Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS), has faced significant setbacks, costing over £1bn with only 24 of 44 projects completed. A report by the Public Accounts Committee highlights technical issues, delays, and a lack of user engagement, exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic. The Common Platform, a key component, has been particularly problematic, leading to staff strikes and increased stress. Despite these challenges, HMCTS maintains that the reforms are essential for modernizing the courts. Key suppliers include Capgemini, Solirus Consulting, Kainos, and Atos.