MPs state loss of personal data should be classed as an offence
October 12, 2008
Instances of data loss and security breaches by banks, financial institutions and even government agencies have been at the forefront of the financial headlines over recent months, with one of the most major instances of sensitive data loss resulting from the loss of two discs containing the banks details of 25 million customers, which was lost by HM Revenue and Customs last year. There have also been a number of other sensitive data loss incidents involving banks, the Department of Work and Pensions, the DVLA, and other agencies.
A group of MPs is now stating that companies should be charged with a criminal offence if they are found to have recklessly or repeatedly lost sensitive data. More stringent laws and more powers are being called for by member of the Justice Select Committee. Members also point out that the level of data loss over recent months has brought to light just how important it is for action to be taken to minimise on instance of personal data loss.
The chairman of the committee stated: “The scale of the data loss by government bodies and contractors is truly shocking but the evidence we have had points to further hidden problems. It is frankly incredible, for example, that the measures HMRC has put in place were not already standard procedure.” The Committee also stated: “There is evidence of a widespread problem within government relating to establishing systems for data protection and operating them adequately.”
Another loss of sensitive data has recently taken place, where prudential documentation relating to customers’ accounts fell out of a courier van and was left at the roadside. This included the bank details of three national lottery winners.
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