Experts are warning that many firms may still not be aware of new powers granted to data protection watchdog the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) which will enable it to fine businesses up to £500,000 for serious breaches of the Data Protection Act (DPA). The new powers, which it is hoped will act as a deterrent and promote compliance with the DPA, were initially approved by the justice secretary in January after years of lobbying by the ICO, and come into force on Tuesday.