Crime Solicitors

London boroughs responding to a Freedom of Information (FOI) request have revealed that two-thirds have suffered data breaches as a result of cyber-crime, potentially putting the security of London residents at risk from identity theft.

The Evening Standard newspaper reports that 27 London boroughs responded to a FOI request – and 22 admitted there had at some point been unauthorised access to sensitive, confidential or classified information in the last two years.

Researchers say that five London Boroughs did not respond to the FOI request.

A total of 21 London boroughs admitted they did not know if data was stored on site or offsite – while nine admitted security systems had not been checked for two years.

Cyber crime and identity theft is one of the fastest-growing areas of criminal activity – and may cause individuals to lose thousands of pounds if information is stolen which would enable hackers to access bank accounts or credit card accounts, or set up new accounts using a stolen identity and run up thousands of pounds worth of debt in another person’s name.

Labour Shadow Communities and Local Government Secretary Emma Reynolds said:

“People will be rightly concerned if their information is not being held securely.

“Councils should get to the bottom of what has happened – and the reasons why there are so many breaches.

The Information Commissioner’s Office – which oversees data protection – said:

“Councils should ensure they have the appropriate technological and organisational measures in place to protect the personal data they hold – and regularly review their arrangements.”

Duncan Lewis Fraud Lawyers

Duncan Lewis fraud lawyers are available 24/7, 365 days a week to advise at any stage of a charge involving fraud, including cyber-crime, financial fraud, company fraud, credit card fraud, identity theft, insurance fraud and benefit fraud.

There are Duncan Lewis offices nationwide and a criminal defence lawyer can usually reach a client at a police station or court in under an hour to advise on fraud charges.

For expert legal advice on all fraud charges, call Duncan Lewis fraud lawyers on 020 7923 4002.
For 24/7 help at a police station, call the Duncan Lewis Emergency Hotline on 020 7275 2036.