Data protection is an important factor to consider when thinking about smart meters, because as with any online technology it can be vulnerable to hackers. However, the government has set rules about how your data can be used – you’ll have the option to choose: How often your supplier can collect data from your smart meter – the minimum is monthly but you can also choose daily and half hourly Whether they can share this with other companies and organisations If they can use your data for marketing purposes The choices you make regarding these matters aren’t permanent – you’ll always be able to change your preferences. If you have any queries about your data, you can always contact your provider to ask.