A recent prosecution has taken place over the V12 Sports and Classics data breach incident where a former employee of the company has been found guilty of breaking the law.
In this case, the former employee (32-year-old Jayana Morgan Davies) reportedly forwarded work emails that contained the data of customers and colleagues to her personal account. She resigned from her position a few weeks later, which suggests a specific motive for the illegal processing of the data she misused.
The incident is said to have taken place in August 2017. It has led to a successful prosecution from the ICO (the Information Commissioner’s Office).
ICO prosecution over V12 Sports and Classics data breach incident
The ICO – the UK’s data watchdog – has prosecuted Jayana Morgan Davies over the V12 Sports and Classics data breach incident.
She has reportedly been fined and been ordered to pay costs in excess of £800.00, set by Birmingham Magistrates’ Court. She admitted to three offences in relation of the unlawful obtaining of personal data.
Speaking about the ruling, the ICO said:
“People expect that their personal information will be treated with respect and privacy. Unfortunately, there are those who abuse their position of trust and the ICO will take action against them for breaking data protection laws.”
V12 Sports and Classics data breach incident is another stark warning
This V12 Sports and Classics data breach incident is another stark warning to employees about their rights and responsibilities when it comes to the use and processing of personal data. The introduction of GDPR has arguably brought to the fore far greater awareness about people’s responsibilities when it comes to using personal data. Although this breach occurred before the new rules came into force, employees should know what’s right and what’s wrong from the first day in their job.
Some people may not even consider that what they’re doing is wrong. They may also consider that, although it’s wrong, the repercussions can be small. But what people need to realise is that employees can – and will – face fines and prosecutions for breaching important data laws. This case is another clear example of what can happen.
Not worth the risk
Can you really afford to lose your job and pay thousands of pounds for committing a data breach?
That kind of mark against your name could have severe and long-term repercussions.
As for the employers, they face claims for data breach compensation, and these can be costly. It’s worth ensuring your systems and procedures are as solid as they can be!