Data Breach Claims Solicitors, Northern Ireland

What is a GDPR Data Breach?

Under GDPR, a data breach is defined as an incident where a breach of security leads to accidental or unlawful destruction, loss, alteration or unauthorised disclosure of personal data. This includes both accidental breaches and deliberate actions.

Your Rights Under GDPR in Northern Ireland

The UK General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018 govern how your personal information is used by a data controller.

You have the right to expect that your personal information is:

• Used fairly and lawfully.
• Used for limited, specifically stated purposes.
• Kept accurate and up to date.
• Stored securely and kept for no longer than necessary.

What is a data controller?

A data controller is an entity that determines the purposes and means of processing personal data. They decide why and how such data should be processed, ensuring compliance with data protection laws.

If a data controller fails in their duties, mandated by GDPR, and you are emotionally or financially impacted by that failure, you may have a claim for compensation due to the misuse of your data.

Common examples of data controllers include:

• Employers and universities.
• The government and public sector bodies.
• Financial institutions such as banks and insurance companies.
• Healthcare providers such as hospitals or GP clinics.

Data breach claims & compensation

If a data controller fails in their duties, mandated by GDPR, and you are emotionally or financially impacted by that failure, you may have a claim for compensation due to the misuse of your data.

Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) Data Breach

In August 2023, in response to a Freedom of Information request, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) inadvertently published the details of every serving officer and staff members on the internet. This breach revealed sensitive details, including names and locations of work, heightening safety concerns amidst a raised terror threat level. The PSNI attributed the breach to “human error” and confirmed that it is taking corrective measures.

McCartan Turkington Breen is dedicated to assisting affected individuals in seeking justice and compensation. Read PSNI Data Breach August 2023 to learn more.

How our data breach solicitors can help you

Our GDPR solicitors are here to support you in understanding your data protection rights.

We have helped individuals across Northern Ireland with various data breach claims, including cases involving public bodies, healthcare providers and commercial organisations.

Start your data breach claim today

Our mission is to ensure that mistakes are put right, that private information stays private, and that compensation is received for any loss and distress caused to you.

If you believe that your personal information has been misused in any way, or has not been treated with the utmost care, please Contact Us without delay. Our initial consultations are free of charge, totally confidential and without obligation to proceed if you do not want to.