With our increasing reliance on technology and digitalisation, data breaches are incredibly common. The leaking of any personal data can cause emotional, financial and physical stress dependent on the particular type of information that has been wrongly disclosed. Whether it be accidental or deliberate the effects of data breach have the potential to cause much harm, be it individual claims or group actions.

All organisations that house data regarding clients have a responsibility to protect such personal information and if there is indeed a breach, it is obligatory that it is reported within 72 hours if it has the potential to harm those involved. To minimise data breaches, companies often have risk assurance plans in place due to the potential loss of their own integrity and confidentiality if a breach were to occur.

As a company is beholden to protect a person’s data, the affected party will be able to pursue legal action against a company if their protection is inadequate consequently leading to the breach. The Data Protection Act 2018, and General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) enables victims of data breaches to claim compensation if the breach has impacted them negatively. The reasoning for breaches can vary from hacking, human error, negligence or failed systems, however any form of breach qualifies compensation for the affected party. More often than not, claims are deemed valid even if there are no financial ramifications.

County Cost is a market leader in dealing with cost work involving  data breach claims with a proven track record of success in such a technical area of law. Examples of notable cases we have won on appeal include Appeal Decision of AX v Hampton Wick Surgery and Appeal Decision of Natalie Trevena and Others v Venova Community Interest Company.