As news emerges of a major data breach affecting approximately 10,000 police officers and staff, those affected by the disclosure will be seeking advice and assistance. We at O’Reilly Stewart Solicitors have experience of representing clients who have successfully sought redress for the unlawful disclosure of their personal data.
A personal data breach arises where there has been a breach of security leading to the the accidental or unlawful disclosure of, or access to, personal data. “Personal data” means any information concerning or relating to an identified or identifiable individual. In these cases it appears that a confidentiality breach has occurred whereby highly sensitive personal information of thousands of individuals has been released into the public sphere without authority.
Data breaches are serious matters, for the organisation which commits the breach and for the individuals affected. Under the General data Protection Regulations (GDPR) individuals affected have the right to report the breach the office of the Information Commissioner (ICO) and to claim compensation for any damage which results from infringement of the regulation.
If you have been affected by this breach then please contact us at O’Reilly Stewart for advice on your options.