PL&B UK E-news, Issue 58



1. Information Commissioner audits HBOS

The Information Commissioner has audited the Halifax Bank of Scotland (HBOS) as a result of another suspected data breach. The bank, whose chief executive signed an undertaking with the ICO on February 1st to acknowledge a previous data security breach, is now suspected of a further failure.

The current suspected breach was revealed by the BBC’s Watchdog programme, which showed that torn bank statements revealed customer names and account numbers. The HBOS undertaking said that the bank should introduce secure lockable bins and shredders in customer facing outlets by 28th February.

The ICO confirmed to PL&B that an audit has taken place, and the office is now studying what the facts are and what the next steps should be.

The Watchdog programme, broadcast on 9 May, also found security lapses with Barclays Bank. The ICO is due to audit all the banks that signed undertakings with it.

At a hearing with the Parliament's Home Affairs Select Committee on 1st May, the Information Commissioner once gain demanded increased powers that would enable him to conduct compulsory inspections and audits.

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