Worries over the security of personal data
Three out of four people have greater concerns than ever about the way that organisations handle personal data, a new poll has found. The survey was carried out by the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO). The increase in worry over just how safe personal data is in the hands of organisations and businesses was reflected in the proportion of people – 80 per cent – who now take extra care protecting details about themselves. Seven out of ten respondents in the survey also said that they felt unable to control the way organisations safeguard the personal data they hold. Some 85 per cent reported that they no longer give out personal details if at all possible. Much of the worry has been prompted by recent high profile cases – including the loss of computer discs containing the whole child benefit database – in which sensitive personal information has gone missing. David Smith, deputy commissioner at the ICO, said: “As more and more personal information is collected, the risk grows that some information will be inaccurate, out of date or end up in the wrong hands. “If organisations fail to recognise the importance of data protection they not only risk losing business, they could also face action from the ICO.” Date:19 March 2008
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