POLICE have experienced more than 250 data breaches since 2022, data reveals.

Figures obtained by Data Breach Claims UK found, in the past three years, information has been stolen or compromised in hundreds of data breach incidents within Avon and Somerset Police.

Officers and staff have access to vast amounts of personal data, which can include information such as a person’s name, phone number, email or address.

As a result, personal data can be destroyed, altered or lost in such data breach incidents, which can lead to a victim experiencing financial loss or psychological harm.

According to a study conducted by VPNoverview in 2020, UK police forces suffered more than 2,000 data breaches across the year, highlighting both the threat from ransomware used by cyber criminals as well as malicious insiders who may be working for the police.

In 2022/23, Avon and Somerset Police saw 94 data breaches take place before this number rose to 121 a year later. Over the past year, the force has seen a decrease in these security incidents, with the total standing at 48.

Bethan Simons, solicitor at JF Law, said: “Breaches don’t always have to be complex cyberattacks, as breaches can often occur from human error. This can include misdirected emails, documents sent to the wrong address, the loss or theft of devices such as laptops or USB sticks containing sensitive information, or even the accidental publication of data, as seen with several UK forces.

“Internal mishandling is another cause of data breaches, such as officers accessing data without authorisation or failing to redact certain sensitive details.

“To prevent these breaches, forces must prioritise data protection measures involving comprehensive training for staff on data handling protocols, encryption of devices, and strict policies regarding the sharing and retention of data.”

Via freedom of information requests, Data Breach Claims UK also found out the most common types of data breaches that took place within Avon and Somerset Police.

Compromised information was the most common type of data breach, totalling 172 incidents, followed by theft or loss, which saw 36 breaches take place.

Bethan said: “Information leaks can have a huge impact on victims as they can lead to identity theft, fraud, harassment, and severe emotional distress.

“If the police force's failings caused a data breach and you suffered financial or emotional harm as a direct result, then you may have grounds to pursue a claim, and it's crucial to seek legal advice promptly.”