ICO recorded 1,000 data breaches

Friday, May 28, 2010

The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) has called on all organisations to minimise the risk of mistakes with personal data.

Its call comes after it revealed the ICO has now recorded 1,000 data breaches, although there are many more suspected that have not been reported.

The ICO said many data security breaches are a result of human or technical error. Creating a culture of information security is essential.

Deputy information commissioner David Smith said: "We all know that mistakes can happen but, the fact is that human error is behind a high proportion of security breaches that have been reported to us. Extra vigilance is required so that people's personal information does not end up in the wrong hands.

"Organisations should have clear security and disclosure procedures that staff can understand, properly implement these and ensure that they are being followed by staff. Staff must be adequately trained not just in the value of personal information, but in how to protect it."

Smith added: "The ICO's Guide to Data Protection and our tips for avoiding wrongful disclosure will help minimise the risks of security breaches occurring. We are keen to work with organisations to prevent breaches happening in the first place and to help ensure that things are put right when they do go wrong."