Confidential information exposed by a data breach

Many of us disclose personal information so often that we don’t even think about it, trusting that the third party that we are handing our information to will protect it securely. Unfortunately, despite the introduction of the GDPR in 2018, many data controllers still break their legal obligations to keep private data safe. The repercussions of a data breach can be serious, with the confidential information exposed becoming subject to misuse.

As specialists in data breach claims, we have seen the consequences that victims can face, which is why we are always determined to hold companies who have exposed data accountable for their actions. We always try to make sure that compensation claims bring no added stress to the victims, so we encourage you to come forward for no-obligation advice if you think you may have a claim to make.

The consequences of having confidential information exposed

When a victim has confidential information exposed, it can be hard to deal with the aftermath and the difficulties that it can bring. All kinds of information can be regarded as confidential, from contact details and employment details, to identity documents and medical records.

In cases where the data is particularly sensitive, victims may experience a serious breach of their privacy. For example, information about medical conditions, criminal records, or personal identity details (such as race or sexual orientation) are often things that we keep private. As a result, if they fall into the wrong hands, they could be perceived as potent fuel for blackmail, and malicious data thieves could use this information to emotionally manipulate their victims.

In addition, the exposure of contact information or bank account details can leave data breach victims open to several kinds of fraud, such as phishing emails, scam calls and identity theft, to name but a few.

Claiming compensation for the exposure of confidential information

As detailed above, having confidential information exposed can come with both an emotional impact and a financial impact. Accordingly, the law can entitle data breach victims to claim compensation for any distress they have suffered, as well as recover financial losses or expenses that were caused as a result; for example, by way of any scams or fraud that the victims have encountered.

In addition, data breach claims can take account of the sensitivity of the confidential information exposed. For example, cases where highly private medical information has been leaked can see substantial compensation pay-outs awarded. An example of a data breach like this is the 56 Dean Street clinic breach, which saw the exposure of the HIV statuses of hundreds of patients, some of whom we have taken on as claimants in our action against the Trust in question.

Specialist data breach solicitors – No Win, No Fee representation

As specialist data breach solicitors, we are proud to offer No Win, No Fee representation to eligible clients when we are confident that we have a good chance of winning their claims. For you, it means that you will not have to pay a penny of our legal fees if the claim is unsuccessful, subject to the terms and conditions of the agreement in place.

If you have had confidential information exposed, we encourage you to contact us for free, no-obligation advice about your case. We understand that many data breach victims are at a loss for what to do in the aftermath, but making a compensation claim is one way of taking action for the damage that has been done.

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