Courier loses 25 million people's data (UK)
When heading to work, most couriers probably don’t expect to find themselves at the centre of a large-scale loss of data leading to a political storm.
But for TNT one misplaced package has caused a national outcry, as CDs containing the personal data of 25 million people is now missing.
Information about anyone registered with HMRC as receiving child benefits is likely to be contained on the missing CDs, including birthdates, addresses and bank details, which leaves them vulnerable to identity fraud.
An HMRC employee sent the child benefit database from Tyne and Wear to London using courier firm TNT in October. They were not sent with a recorded delivery courier and as a result TNT has said it is unable to track the package.
“TNT operates a general internal mail system for the HMRC and other associated government agencies,” a statement for the company said.
“General mail does not carry a track and trace mechanism and hence it has been impossible, in this instance, to conduct an audit to identify if the item entered the system.”
While there are no doubt red faces all round, it is the HMRC employee and chancellor Alistair Darling who are suffering more than the courier. The staff member was placed under police protection, while the chancellor is fending off resignation calls.
