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NEWS & EVENTS
| Companies warned on data protection 02/06/2010 Companies in the region not handling personal data correctly could face a fine of up to £500,000 according to a local solicitors Roythornes .
As the number of breaches involving personal data reported to the Information Commissioners Offices reaches 1000, businesses are being urged to place greater importance on training staff on data protection issues.
Speaking about the 1000 notifications, Deborah Brown, Commercial solicitor with Roythornes said:
"We have all heard on the news about the cases when CDs or laptops containing personal records have been lost or stolen and I am sure no-one would want their personal details in the hands of those not authorised to have it. In April a new level of fines was introduced which means companies who breach the regulations could face a fine of up to £500,000 which shows the importance the Commissioner places on breaches."
Deborah went on to say that whilst mistakes can happen, human error is behind a high proportion of the breaches, and staff need thorough training to recognise whet they can and cannot do with personal data.
"If your staff handle personal data in any way they need to know who they can and cannot release that data to, and how it can be used. Technology such as e-mails now makes it easier than ever to accidentally transmit data to an unintended recipient and the consequences of doing so can be drastic both in terms of loss of reputation for the firm and now a potentially massive fine."
Deborah finished by saying that whilst the headlines are often about public bodies such as the NHS and local Government losing data, private companies are as much at risk:
"Of the 1007 claims notified, 288 concern private companies, so the rule must be if you hold personal data, you and your business are at risk and you should ensure your staff are trained to handle it."
Anyone wanting advice on data protection should contact Deborah Brown at Roythornes on 01733 558585. |
