EU Data Act — Regulation on harmonised rules on fair access to and use of data (Data Act)

The Data Act sets out harmonised rules for fair access to and use of data generated by Internet-of-Things (IoT) devices. It ensures that consumers and businesses can access and transfer data while maintaining confidentiality. The regulation introduces measures for improving legal certainty in data-sharing contracts, enabling users to switch between cloud providers, and prohibits unfair contractual terms. It also grants public sector bodies access to certain private sector data in public interest cases like emergencies. The act is cross-sectoral, applying broadly to foster innovation, competition, and sustainability while aligning related legislation with its principles. It comes into force on 11 January 2024 and will be applicable from 12 September 2025.