Why there’s been a sudden rise in security breaches – and what you can do to safeguard your data
If you do find yourself in the unfortunate position of having your data stolen, here’s what to do
We are forever handing over personal details to companies – but it seems they cannot always be trusted to keep them safe.
Security hacks have been hitting the headlines recently, with British Airways coming in for some serious stick after personal data was pinched.
TV Licensing is the latest to fall victim to hackers, admitting its systems were not as secure as they should have been.
The reality is, the moment you pass your data on – such as your name, address or bank card details – there is a big chance it will end up in the hands of fraudsters.
Here are some of the key things that everyone needs to know.
Why so many data breaches?
In May, new data protection laws came into force, known as GDPR.
Under the laws, organisations have a legal obligation to disclose when there has been a data breach – such as being hacked, losing data or discovering a security threat.
So it is not that there has been an increase, it is just they have to tell us when data breaches occur.
Protect yourself
There are some simple but effective steps you can take, such as checking your bank and credit card statements to make sure there are no fraudulent transactions.
You should change passwords regularly and be wary of who you give your personal data to. But if you do find yourself in the unfortunate position of having your data stolen take these steps:
■ File a complaint with the Information Commissioner’s Office. Visit ico.org.uk.
■ If it provides an opinion that the organisation has breached data protection laws, send this opinion to the organisation.
■ If they refuse to pay out, file a claim in the small claims court.
Claiming compensation
Generally speaking, if an organisation owes a duty of care or has agreed to do something and they breach this, you will be entitled to compensation if you can prove you have suffered a loss
In the case of a data breach, organisations have a duty to keep your data secure.
This means they must take all necessary measures to prevent unauthorised or unlawful processing of your data.
If they fail and your data gets into the wrong hands, you will be able to claim compo if you can show you have suffered a loss.
News Source: Dean Dunham, The Mirror
