There has been an explosion of data on the Web. Much of this data is generated by or else refers to individuals. This emerging area of personal information assets is presenting new opportunities and challenges for all of us.

This paper reviews a UK Government initiative called ‘midata’. The midata programme of work is being undertaken with leading businesses and consumer groups in order to give consumers access to their personal data in a portable and electronic format. Consumers can then use this data to help them better understand their own consumption behaviours and patterns, as well as make more informed and appropriate purchasing and other decisions.

The paper reviews the history and context, principles and progress behind midata. It describes concrete examples and examines some of the challenges in making personal information assets available in this way. The paper reviews some of the key tools and technologies available for managing personal information assets. We also summarise the legislative landscape and various legal proposals under development that are relevant to midata.

We review similar efforts elsewhere in particular those underway in the US under a programme of work called Smart Disclosure. This work seeks to release personal information held by government and business back to citizens and consumers. Finally we discuss likely future developments.