The Official Secrets Act 2026 has officially came into effect following the passage of the 30 day period since receiving Royal Assent.
The Act is a replacement of the former Official Secrets Act 2025, and includes a reworking of key definitions and materials classifications.
Areas such as sensitive information, including documents and criminal investigations, have now received more defined categorical designations under the Act to ensure that it is adequately protected.
Under the Official Secrets Act 2026, information can now be split into three distinct categories: restricted, secret, and top secret.