What is a Personal Data Breach?

The GDPR was introduced in May 2018 and it has so far seen millions of pounds paid in compensation. Designed to prevent data breaches, the legislation protects consumers, ensuring their data is correctly used and safe from hackers.Personal Data Breach

However, while GDPR has made positive changes, it doesn’t mean a data breach won’t occur. It just means you will be better protected if it does. Here, we’ll look at what a personal data breach is and how GDPR protects you if it happens.

Understanding Personal Data

Personal data is information relating to an individual. The individual would be easily identifiable, either indirectly or directly, from the information.

It includes things such as your name, address, National insurance number, your IP or email address. It can also include sensitive data such as information about your genetics, health, and your religious beliefs.

Companies collect personal data to help them better understand their customers. They may also need specific information in order to provide you a product or service.

What Is A Personal Data Breach?

A personal data breach occurs when your information is lost, stolen or unlawfully destroyed. Some examples include:

  • Your data was accessed by an unauthorised third party
  • Data is sent to the wrong recipient
  • Alteration of the data without consent
  • Computers or devices containing data are stolen
  • The loss of data

Most of the time, a data breach relates to when personal data has gotten into the wrong hands. This is mostly due to hackers getting into business systems. While it is a lot more difficult for hackers to get into systems these days, it certainly isn’t impossible.

What Happens If a Breach Occurs?

So, what happens if a data breach occurs? Unfortunately, it could have a devastating impact on your life and your finances. That is why the GDPR rules were introduced. The good news is, there is now protection for those who have been a victim of a data breach.

If your data has been lost, stolen or tampered with, you could receive data protection breach compensation. How much you could receive will depend upon the severity of the breach. By law, businesses need to tell you if there has been a breach in your personal data. If they don’t, you would be entitled to more compensation.

If you have been a victim of a personal data breach, it’s a good idea to seek professional advice. They will be able to help you establish whether you have a claim, and if so, how much compensation you could be entitled to. They will also be able to show you how the claims process works, helping you to correctly file your claim for compensation.