PSNI Data Breach
The Police Federation for Northern Ireland are aware of a major security breach of officers’ details by the PSNI.
Surnames and initials, identification numbers, roles and where officers are based as of 1st August 2023 were released and published as part of an FOI request. No other personal information was included.
An urgent investigation is underway and PFNI are engaging with PSNI regarding the steps they are taking to support officers, limit the damage caused and protect their identities. Initial steps include ascertaining the number of persons who viewed/downloaded the data and steps to prevent any reoccurrence.
This is a significant security breach and the matter has been declared a critical incident. PSNI have also reported the matter to the Information Commissioners Office as a serious data breach. This has transpired to be an accidental disclosure, however, it still represents an alarming data and security breach that quite simply should never have happened.
PFNI members are appalled by this breach, shocked and justifiably angry. Understandably, given this breach of trust, they are demanding action to address this unprecedented disclosure of sensitive information. PSNI have requested that in the first instance officers raise their concerns with their line manager to ensure appropriate steps are taken to understand officers’ concerns and progress security assessments where necessary.
We have many colleagues who go to great lengths and do everything possible to protect their police identity and role for a variety of reasons. PFNI will continue to provide support to members in the coming days.
Once the investigation yields some clarity on the perceived and actual exposure online and threat/risk/harm can be quantified PFNI will consider the merits of individual or group legal options for officers who may be entitled to compensation.
At this stage there is no need to complete a legal assistance application. Further updates in relation to this will follow in the coming days.
