What Is A Data Security Breach And Can You Make A Claim?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various aspects of data breaches, including the question of ‘What is a data security breach?’ and ‘Can I claim compensation for exposure of my data?’  Additionally, we’ll explain the steps you can take if you’ve been affected, and the possibility of making a claim for compensation.

Unfortunately, data security breaches are more prevalent than ever, posing significant risks to individuals and organisations alike. In the UK, these breaches are governed by stringent data protection legislation, primarily the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Data Protection Act.

What Is A Data Security BreachIn the following sections, we’ll delve deeper into the legal framework surrounding data protection, discuss how to identify a data security breach, explain the notification and reporting process, and guide you through the steps of making a data breach claim.

Remember, you don’t have to navigate this complex process alone. Our team of experienced data breach advisors is here to assist you.  Therefore, why not contact our Data Breach Advisors now to get the answers you need and assistance in starting your claim.

  • Call us at 0800 408 7827
  • Fill out our contact form
  • Or, initiate a live chat with our team of experts.

We’re here to support you every step of the way.

Understanding Data Security Breaches In The UK

The GDPR, which came into effect in May 2018, strongly emphasises safeguarding personal data and ensuring organisations handle it responsibly. It establishes strict obligations for businesses and organisations to implement robust security measures, promptly detect and respond to breaches, and notify affected individuals and regulatory authorities when necessary.

Under the GDPR, organisations are obliged to implement stringent security measures to safeguard personal data from unauthorised access, accidental loss, or destruction. They must also promptly identify and respond to data breaches to mitigate potential harm.

The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) is the UK’s independent authority responsible for upholding information rights and enforcing data protection regulations. The ICO plays a vital role in ensuring organisations comply with the law and protecting individuals’ privacy.

If your personal information has been compromised in a data breach, it is crucial to report the incident to the ICO. The GDPR mandates that organisations must notify the ICO of certain types of data breaches within 72 hours of becoming aware of them unless the breach is unlikely to pose a risk to individuals’ rights and freedoms.

If you suspect that your personal information has been compromised due to a data breach, it’s crucial to understand your rights and options when it comes to making data breach claims too. The GDPR grants individuals the right to seek compensation for any distress or financial losses resulting from a data breach.

Identifying A Data Security Breach And Taking Action

Recognising the signs of a data security breach is crucial for taking prompt action to protect your personal information. Here are some key indicators that may suggest a data breach has occurred:

  1. Unusual Account Activity. Firstly, keep an eye out for unexpected transactions, changes in account details, or unfamiliar activity on your online accounts.
  2. Unauthorised Access: If you receive notifications or alerts about login attempts or password changes that you didn’t initiate, it could be a sign that your data has been compromised.
  3. Suspicious Emails or Communications: Be cautious of phishing emails or messages requesting sensitive information, as they may be attempts to extract your personal data.
  4. Loss of Data or System Malfunctions: Data breaches can lead to data loss or disruptions in services. If you experience unexplained data loss or notice system glitches, it could indicate a breach.

Taking Action if You Suspect a Data Security Breach:

  1. Document and Preserve Evidence: Make detailed notes of any suspicious activity, take screenshots if possible, and keep copies of relevant communications or notifications.
  2. Change Passwords: Immediately update your passwords for affected accounts. Use strong, unique passwords and consider enabling two-factor authentication for added security.
  3. Report the Incident: If the breach involves a specific organisation, contact their data protection or security team to report the incident and inquire about their breach response procedures.
  4. Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly review your financial and online accounts for any unusual activity. Report any suspicious transactions to the respective institution or service provider.

Remember, every data breach is unique, and the steps you need to take may vary.

Making a Data Breach Claim – Rights and Options

If you’ve been a victim of a data breach and have suffered financial losses or emotional distress, you may be entitled to make a data breach claim. Understanding your rights and exploring your options is essential in seeking compensation for the harm caused.

To make a data breach claim, certain criteria must be met. Typically, you must demonstrate that your personal data was compromised due to the breach, the organisation acted wrongfully and that you have suffered harm as a direct result.

Seeking Legal Advice

Firstly, consult a data breach solicitor who specialises in handling such cases. They possess the expertise to assess the merits of your claim, guide you through the legal process, and maximise your chances of success.

Proving Negligence or Breach of Duty

In a data breach claim, it is crucial to establish that the responsible party (such as an organisation or data controller) failed to implement appropriate security measures or breached their duty of care in safeguarding your personal information.

Gathering Evidence

Now, collect all relevant evidence, including documentation of the breach, communication with the organisation, financial records, and any evidence of distress or losses incurred as a result of the breach.

Assessing Compensation

Compensation for a data breach claim may include financial damages to cover any monetary losses, such as fraudulent transactions, as well as compensation for emotional distress or reputational damage suffered. You can visit our page on using a data breach compensation calculator here to find out more about this.

Negotiation and Settlement

Next, your solicitor will engage in negotiation with the responsible party or their insurance provider to reach a fair settlement. If an agreement cannot be reached, legal proceedings may be initiated.

Time Limit for Claims

However, it’s important to note that there is typically a time limit, known as the limitation period, for making a data breach claim. In the UK, the general time limit is six years from the date of the breach or when you became aware of it. However, some data breach claims have shorter time limits.

Seeking compensation for a data breach can be a complex process, which is why professional legal advice is invaluable. Contact our advisors today to discuss your situation and explore the possibilities of making a data breach claim.

Making A No Win No Fee Claim For A Data Security Breach

If you’ve been affected by a data breach, you may be able to make a claim for compensation. However, the thought of pursuing a claim can be daunting, especially if you’re worried about the costs involved. Luckily, that’s where a Conditional Fee Agreement (CFA), also known as a No Win No Fee agreement, can help.

A CFA is an agreement between you and your solicitor, which means that you won’t have to pay for their work upfront. Your solicitor will take on your case and cover the costs of pursuing your claim. If your claim is successful, your solicitor will be entitled to claim a success fee, which is a percentage of your compensation award. Additionally, the success fee is limited by law to a maximum of 25% of your total compensation, excluding any compensation for future losses.

The main benefit of a CFA is that it removes the financial risk of pursuing a claim. If your claim is unsuccessful, you won’t have to pay your solicitor in most cases. Furthermore, it’s important to note that if you win your case, the success fee will be deducted from your compensation award.

Start Your Claim

We can connect you with a solicitor who can take on your claim under a No Win No Fee agreement. Furthermore, our experienced team of advisors can help you understand the claims process, assess your chances of success, and provide you with guidance and support every step of the way.

Therefore, why not contact us via telephone at 0800 408 7827, use our contact form. Alternatively, you can live chat to schedule a consultation. Let us help you get the justice and compensation you’re entitled to.

Further Guidance Related To ‘What Is A Data Security Breach?’

Finally, why not take a look at the below guides to further your knowledge.

Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) – Reporting a Data Breach.

Gov.uk – Making a Data Protection Subject Access Request.

National Cyber Security Centre – Cyber Incident Response Guidance.

Claiming Compensation If Confidential Information Is Sent To The Wrong Email Address – Next, you can gain insight into the claims process if someone sends your confidential information to the wrong person via email in this guide.

What Is The Difference Between A Data Breach And A Data Protection Breach? – Here, you can learn about data breaches and data protection breaches. Additionally, we show you how to claim compensation for such breaches.

What Is Classed As Sensitive Data And Can You Claim If It’s Exposed? – Finally, in this guide, you can find out what happens if sensitive data is exposed.