Data breaches put domestic abuse victims’ lives at risk, UK Information Commissioner warns

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Summary:

The UK Information Commissioner has issued reprimands to seven organisations for data breaches affecting victims of domestic abuse. The breaches occurred over a 14-month period, with most cases involving organisations accidentally disclosing victims' home addresses to alleged perpetrators. The Commissioner urges organisations to ensure thorough training, proper procedures, and regular checks to prevent such incidents. He also highlights the importance of protecting the personal information of victims of domestic abuse, saying that it is a matter of life and death.

The organisations involved include a law firm, housing association, NHS trust, government department, local councils, and a police service. The breaches included revealing safe addresses to abusers, disclosing identities of women seeking information about their partners, and sending unredacted reports about children to their mother's ex-partners.

The Commissioner provides guidelines for organisations to follow, including having processes in place to support those experiencing domestic abuse, regularly checking contact information, avoiding inappropriate access, double-checking before transferring or disclosing information, and ensuring training is thorough and relevant.

The document also features quotes from various organizations, including Women's Aid, the Domestic Abuse Commissioner for England and Wales, and the Commissioner Designate for Victims of Crime, Northern Ireland, highlighting the gravity of these breaches and the need for organizations to prioritize the safety and security of victims' personal information.