Restriction request | ConsumerWise

What restriction does

Restriction usually means the data can be stored but its use is limited.

This can be particularly useful while an organisation checks disputed accuracy. It is not a general “freeze my whole account” request, so identify the data and the reason restriction applies.

State exactly which data is disputed.
Choose the reason that actually applies to your situation.
Explain any ongoing consequence of continuing to use the data.
Ask to be told before a temporary restriction is lifted where required.

Editable template

Version 1: request restriction of processing

Use this when one of the recognised grounds for restriction applies, including while disputed accuracy is being verified.

How to edit it: replace everything in square brackets with your own details. If a bracketed paragraph does not apply, delete it before sending.

Subject: Request to restrict processing: [reference]

Dear Data Protection Team,

I am asking you to restrict processing of the following personal data:
[describe the data, record, entry or category]

Reason for the request
[Keep the one that applies and delete the others:]
[I dispute the accuracy of this data and you are verifying it.]
[I believe the processing is unlawful, but I want the data restricted rather than erased.]
[You say you no longer need the data, but I need it kept for the establishment, exercise or defence of a legal claim.]
[I have objected to the processing and the relevant grounds are still being considered.]

The relevant facts are:
[brief explanation and evidence]

Please confirm when the restriction has been applied and what that restriction means in practice for this data.

[Optional: If you have disclosed the data to recipients, please tell me what steps you will take to communicate the restriction where required.]

Please notify me before lifting the restriction where the law requires you to do so, and explain the basis for lifting it.

Yours faithfully,
[Your name]

Editable template

Version 2: proposed lifting of a restriction

Use this if the organisation says it intends to lift a restriction but you believe the underlying accuracy or processing issue has not been resolved.

How to edit it: replace everything in square brackets with your own details. If a bracketed paragraph does not apply, delete it before sending.

Subject: Restriction of processing: unresolved issue before restriction is lifted: [reference]

Dear Data Protection Team,

You notified me on [date] that you intend to lift the restriction on [describe the data].

The underlying issue remains unresolved because:
[describe the factual, accuracy or processing issue]

Evidence: [document/date/reference]

Before the restriction is lifted, please explain:
1. the conclusion you have reached on the underlying issue;
2. the evidence relied on;
3. how you have addressed [specific conflicting evidence or point]; and
4. the date on which you intend to resume processing.

[Optional: Please treat this as a data-protection complaint if you maintain that the restriction can now be lifted.]

Yours faithfully,
[Your name]

Official & related guidance

Check the route that applies to your situation.

Check the linked guidance before sending. Rules, complaint stages and time limits can differ by sector.