October 3, 2007

Technology companies call for data breach law

Written by Jan Harris

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Technology companies call for data breach law
According to a survey by Intellect, the trade association for the UK technology industry, over 50 per cent of the UK’s technology companies would support legislation requiring companies to notify customers of data breaches.

The preliminary results of the survey also show that 50 per cent of respondents believe the legislations should cover both public and private sectors, and that it should cover all forms of information, not just online information.

The survey is part of Intellect’s initiative to examine the viability of a UK data breach law, and how this would affect businesses.

The organisation is launching a working group to lead the campaign and to place the issue of data security high up on the business agenda.

Respondents to the survey come from Intellect’s membership, with three quarters of those who have responded so far, saying that customers affected by a breach should be notified, and so should the regulator.

A quarter of respondents thought that all customers should be notified of a breach, while one in five believed the police should also be notified.

Intellect’s working group will try to find practical solutions to deal with data breaches and to protect customers.

The organisation believes that without a secure, underlying infrastructure for data, consumer and business confidence will be eroded, causing damage to the economy.

Filed Under Business, Security, Technology