In this guide, we will walk you through the process of making a data breach claim after a passport data breach. Your passport is one of the most important identification documents you possess, and unfortunately, it is also one of the most sought-after pieces of information by hackers and cybercriminals.
Several companies and organisations may hold your passport data, including airlines, hotels, banks, government agencies, and travel agencies. If any of these companies misuses your passport data, or if your data is exposed due to a data breach, it could lead to severe financial and emotional damage.
Fortunately, you have the legal right to make a data breach compensation claim if a company has wrongfully exposed your passport data and you’ve suffered harm as a result. In this guide, we will explain what damages you could claim, how long you might have to claim data breach compensation, and how we can help you make a No Win No Fee data breach claim.
We understand that the process of making a data breach claim can be overwhelming. However, with our comprehensive guide, you will have all the information you need. You’ll then be able to take the necessary steps to seek the compensation you deserve. We encourage you to read through this guide carefully.
Should you have questions after reading, or you’d like to begin a claim, please get in touch.
You can reach an advisor in one of the ways below:
- Calling 0800 408 7827
- Using our live chat
- Using our contact form
Your Passport And Data Breach Claims
Passport data typically includes your full name, date of birth, photograph, passport number, nationality, and other personal information. If criminals access this information, it can be used to open bank accounts. Or, it could be used apply for loans, make purchases, and carry out other fraudulent activities. These could lead to financial losses and long-term damage to your credit score. A passport data breach could also lead to psychological harm.
Organisations that collect passport data have a legal responsibility to protect this information under the Data Protection Act 2018. This act requires organisations to take appropriate measures to ensure that personal information is processed fairly, lawfully, and securely. If an organisation acts wrongfully and your passport data is exposed in a data breach, you may be entitled to claim compensation.
To be eligible for a data breach claim, you must show that your passport data was exposed due to the wrongful act of an organisation that was responsible for protecting it. You must also be able to demonstrate that you suffered harm as a result of the data breach, such as financial losses, emotional distress, or reputational damage.
If you meet these eligibility criteria, you may be entitled to claim compensation for the harm you suffered.
Passport Data Breach Time Limits
For passport data breach claims in the UK, there is also a time limit for making a claim under the Limitation Act 1980. The time limit is, in many cases, six years from the date of the breach. However, there are exceptions to this. Therefore, if you suspect that you may have a claim for a passport data breach, it’s crucial to act quickly and seek legal advice to avoid missing the time limit. If you are uncertain about whether you’re still within the time limit, seeking legal advice as soon as possible is advisable.
How Could A Passport Data Breach Happen?
Passport data breaches can happen, and it’s crucial to understand what could lead to a breach to protect yourself and your sensitive information. Here are some common factors that could lead to a passport data breach:
- Cyberattacks – Cybercriminals are constantly looking for ways to access sensitive information, and passport data is a prime target. They may use tactics such as phishing, malware, and hacking to gain access to passport data stored in databases.
- Insider threats – Employees of companies that handle passport data may intentionally or unintentionally expose the data. They may be motivated by financial gain, revenge, or carelessness, among other reasons.
- Third-party suppliers – Companies that handle passport data may outsource some of their services to third-party suppliers, who may not have the same level of security measures in place. If a breach occurs with a third-party supplier, it can compromise the passport data of many people.
- Human error – Mistakes happen, and human error is a common cause of passport data breaches. It could be something as simple as an employee sending an email with sensitive passport information to the wrong recipient.
- Outdated security systems – Companies that handle passport data need to ensure that their security systems are up-to-date and robust. If their systems are outdated or have vulnerabilities, they could be easily breached.
Therefore, it is important to note that even if you take all the necessary precautions to protect your passport data, a breach could still occur due to factors outside of your control. Therefore, it’s essential to be vigilant and monitor your passport data for any suspicious activity. If you suspect that your passport data has been compromised, you should take immediate action to protect yourself from further harm.
What Evidence Do I Need To Claim For A Passport Data Breach?
To make a successful claim for a passport data breach, you will need to provide evidence to support your claim. The evidence you need will depend on the specific circumstances of the breach and the harm you have suffered. Here are some types of evidence that may be useful:
- Evidence of the breach – You should provide any evidence you have that shows the breach occurred. This can include emails, letters, or other documentation from the company that was responsible for the breach.
- Proof of harm – You will need to demonstrate that you have suffered harm as a result of the breach. This can include financial losses, emotional distress, or damage to your credit score.
- Medical records – If you have suffered physical or psychological harm as a result of the breach, you should provide medical records or other evidence that shows the extent of your injuries.
- Financial records – If you have suffered financial losses as a result of the breach, you should provide financial records that demonstrate the extent of your losses.
If you are unsure about what evidence you need to provide, it’s best to seek legal advice.
What Damages Could I Receive For A Successful Passport Data Breach Claim?
If you make a successful claim for a passport data breach in the UK, there are several types of damages you could potentially receive. The specific damages you are eligible to claim will depend on the circumstances of the breach. Plus, the harm you have suffered. Here are some examples of the damages you could claim:
- Financial losses – If you have suffered any financial losses as a result of the breach, you could claim compensation. This could include things like expenses incurred to rectify the breach, lost wages due to identity theft. Or, they could include the cost of credit monitoring services.
- Emotional distress – If you have suffered emotional distress as a result of the breach, you could claim compensation for that distress. This could include anxiety, depression, or other psychological harm.
- Loss of privacy – If your personal information has been exposed as a result of the breach, you could claim compensation for the loss of privacy.
- Damage to reputation – If your personal information has been exposed, it could lead to damage to your reputation. You could claim compensation for any harm to your reputation caused by the breach.