Data Breach Claims

If you have been affected by a data breach that has impacted you financially and emotionally, our Manchester-based solicitors can help you. Starting a data breach compensation claim with Graham Coffey & Co. Solicitors will put you in the best possible position of securing the outcome you deserve.

Our team of data breach solicitors - based in Manchester city centre - are widely recognised for offering practical and pragmatic legal advice that will help you and your family to get your lives back on track following this stressful incident.

How we can help you with a data breach compensation claim

Our experienced data breach solicitors have helped many clients to claim compensation after suffering a data breach. We understand the significant damage and stress that a data breach can cause, and we are here to help you to rebuild your life following this stressful incident.

No matter what type of data breach you have suffered, if you have trusted a business or a body to protect your personal information and they have failed to do so, you could be entitled to claim data breach compensation.

Our solicitors understand the disruption this could cause to your life, and we are ready to fight your corner. To find out how much data breach compensation you could be owed, get in touch with our expert data breach solicitors today.

Types of data protection claims we can assist with?

Personal data breaches: These involve unauthorised access to personal information such as names, addresses, and contact details. Examples include hacking of social media accounts or email phishing.

Financial data breaches: This includes unauthorised access to bank accounts, credit card details, and other financial information, leading to potential financial loss.

Medical data breaches: Unauthorised access to medical records, health insurance details, and other sensitive health-related information.

Employment data breaches: This involves unauthorised access to employment records, salary details, and other confidential employment-related information.

Other types of data breaches: We also handle less common breaches involving intellectual property, trade secrets, and more, ensuring that your rights are protected regardless of the nature of the breach.

Why choose us for your personal data breach claim?

Graham Coffey & Co. Solicitors is a Manchester-based legal specialist that will work tirelessly to ensure you have the possible chance of securing compensation if your data has been breached.

As a standard part of our service, our personal data breach solicitors can offer:

• No win, no fee legal representation
• A free, no-obligation consultation
• The direct dial telephone number of the solicitor who is handling your case

Who can claim compensation for a data breach?

Any person whose data has been breached has the right to claim compensation under data protection laws. This includes breaches of personal, financial, or medical information. We also assist in cases involving minors, deceased individuals, and other unique situations. Our expertise extends to ensuring that even in these complex cases, justice is served, and appropriate compensation is secured.

How to start a data protection claim

Initial consultation: Discussing your case with one of our expert solicitors is the first step. We offer a free initial consultation to understand your personal data breach.

Gathering evidence: Collecting evidence to prove the breach, such as communication with the breaching party, is crucial. We guide you in gathering all necessary documents.

Notifying the responsible party: Legal requirements necessitate notifying the party responsible for the breach. We handle this process professionally, ensuring compliance with all legal obligations.

Legal proceedings: We guide you through the legal process, ensuring that your rights are protected at every stage. Our experienced team will represent you in court if necessary, fighting for your rightful compensation.

Our one-call promise

With a single phone call to our Manchester office, you will be able to find out whether or not you have a viable data breach claim that we can pursue. If our solicitors determine that your case is likely to be successful, we will work with you to build the strongest possible case straight away. Start your data breach claim today.

FAQs

What is a data breach?

As we move at an ever-increasing speed into the digital world, the greater the amount of personal information that is being stored and routinely processed. The Data Protection Act 2018 has modernised the laws that protect your personal information by giving effect to the General Data Protection Regulations which were introduced across Europe in 2018.

Even though we have now left the European Union, the 2018 Data Protection Act guarantees those protections continue as UK Law. It imposes strict control on how that information can be used and crucially places clear obligations upon those organisations that hold and process your personal information, to ensure that this information is safe and secure.

It provides direct protection against unauthorised or unlawful processing as well as accidental loss or destruction of personal data. In very simple terms, it is designed to ensure that your data should only be collected and stored with your permission, for the purpose agreed by you, and should be safe and secure and protected from accidental leaks or hackers.

When an organisation has stored your data without permission, accidentally loses your data or fails to ensure there is adequate protection against the data being stolen, then the organisations are not only liable to huge fines by the Information Commissioner’s Office but are also now accountable to you for compensation.

If you are or have been a customer of the above and have received notification of a data breach then you should contact us immediately for specialist data breach compensation advice.

What does data breach compensation cover?

Compensation can be awarded for:

• Stress and anxiety
• Direct financial and indirect financial losses
• Compensation for allowing the breach to occur
• Compensation awards typically vary depending upon the type of information involved, the extent of the breach, and the effect of the breach on you

What type of information is involved in a data breach?

The loss or misuse of any personal information is likely to entitle you to compensation, provided the organisation can be shown to have breached the Data Protection Act 2018.

This can include:

• Basic personal information such as name and email address
• More detailed personal information including home address and contact telephone numbers
• Financial data including credit card and banking information
• Sensitive Data such as religion or membership of a trade union

How much compensation can I claim for a data breach?

Compensation can vary depending upon the nature of the breach and crucially the type of information that is involved. It will also be important to understand how that breach has affected you. Often, finding out that your data has been stolen for example can lead to feelings of anxiety and stress. This may be intensified in cases where the data is more detailed and or includes financial information.

Even the most minor breaches resulting in the loss of your name and email address could entitle you to around £1,500 compensation - more if you have suffered stress and anxiety.

Compensation is also awarded for direct losses arising from the breach including the cost of changing bank details. Of course, where the breach has led to you becoming a victim of financial crime or fraud then there may be substantial compensation awarded to cover your losses.

Our data breach solicitors can help you to understand how much data breach compensation you could be entitled to.

How much will it cost to make a claim?

We do not require any advance payment of fees from you and in the event your claim is

successful, we will recover a contribution to our legal fees from the responsible organisation and a limited contribution from your compensation.

If your claim is not successful then you will not be responsible for paying any fees incurred. More information about the funding of your claim can be provided before you make any decision to proceed.

Can I make a GDPR breach claim?

The UK GDPR rules put responsibility on organisations to protect your data, and to report breaches of personal data to a relevant authority. The rule states that if the breach is likely to affect or put an individual’s rights at risk, the individual must be informed at once.

If your personal data has been breached, or have reason to believe so, you may be owed financial compensation. We at Graham Coffey are expert GDPR claims solicitors, so if you are looking to receive data breach compensation, there is no one better prepared to help you through the process.

What can you claim for following a data breach?

Have a section here where you introduce the question

• Material damages: This includes financial losses, costs incurred in rectifying the breach, and other tangible damages. Whether it's the loss of savings or the cost of credit monitoring services, we ensure that all material damages are accounted for in your claim.
• Non-material damages: Emotional distress, reputational harm, and other intangible damages can also be claimed. We recognise the profound impact that a data breach can have on your mental well-being and social standing, and we fight to ensure that these damages are duly compensated.
• Case studies: Our firm has successfully represented clients in various data breach claims, securing compensation for both material and non-material damages. From individuals to large corporations, our victories in court stand as a testament to our expertise and dedication to our clients.

Are you owed compensation for data protection negligence?

Negligence in data protection occurs when there is a failure to take reasonable care in protecting data. This can include inadequate security measures, failure to update systems or improper handling of sensitive information. Our firm's expertise in proving negligence ensures that you receive the compensation you deserve. We meticulously investigate the circumstances of the breach, identifying lapses in duty and care. Our team collaborates with cybersecurity experts when necessary, building a robust case that leaves no room for doubt. With our firm by your side, you can be confident that those responsible for the negligence will be held accountable.

How to claim compensation for a data breach?

To claim compensation for a data breach, it is essential to first identify the nature and extent of the breach. This involves gathering evidence such as notifications from the breaching party, bank statements, or any communication related to the breach. Consulting with a specialist solicitor in data protection claims is highly recommended, as we can guide you through the complex legal landscape. Your solicitor will assist in notifying the responsible party, often a prerequisite before legal proceedings. If the matter cannot be resolved amicably, it may be necessary to take the claim to court. Throughout this process, the solicitor will represent your interests, ensuring that all legal requirements are met and that you receive the compensation you are entitled to.

How long does a data breach claim take?

The duration of a data breach claim can vary widely depending on several factors. Typically, a claim may take anywhere from six to 18 months. The complexity of the case, the willingness of the responsible party to cooperate, and the court's schedule can all influence the timeline. If the responsible party acknowledges fault quickly, a settlement may be reached in a matter of months. However, if the case is complex and requires extensive investigation or if it proceeds to court, it can take considerably longer.

Speaking to a solicitor with expertise in data breach claims can often speed up the process, as they will be familiar with the necessary procedures and can navigate the legal system efficiently.

How can I check if my data has been breached?

Checking if your data has been breached requires vigilance and the use of various tools and methods. Regularly monitoring your bank and credit card statements for unauthorised transactions is a one step you can take. Online tools are available that can alert you if your email address has been involved in a known breach. It's also advisable to use strong, unique passwords and change them regularly as this can prevent unauthorised access.

If you suspect that your data has been breached, contacting the relevant institutions (such as your bank) and seeking professional assistance from a solicitor specialising in data breaches can provide further guidance and support.

What should I do if I have a data breach?

If you discover that you have been the victim of a data breach, immediate action is required. First, secure any affected accounts by changing passwords and implementing additional security measures such as two-factor authentication. Notify your bank and other relevant institutions if financial information has been compromised. Report the breach to the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) if it involves personal data. It's also advisable to consult with a solicitor specialising in data breach claims, as they can provide legal guidance tailored to your specific situation. We can assist in determining if you are entitled to compensation and guide you through the legal process if necessary.

How serious is a data breach?

A data breach can be extremely serious, with far-reaching consequences. For individuals, it can lead to financial loss, identity theft and emotional distress. The loss of personal or sensitive information can have long-term impacts, affecting credit ratings and personal reputation.

For businesses, a data breach can result in legal penalties, loss of customer trust and significant financial burdens. The reputational damage can have lasting effects on a company's brand and market position. In some cases, a data breach may also constitute a criminal offence, leading to further legal implications. The seriousness of a data breach underscores the importance of taking prompt action and seeking professional legal guidance if you are affected.

Is a data breach a criminal offence?

In certain circumstances, a data breach may be considered a criminal offence under UK law. The Computer Misuse Act 1990, for example, makes unauthorised access to computer material a criminal offence. This can include hacking into systems to obtain personal data.

Additionally, individuals or organisations that knowingly or recklessly breach data protection principles under the Data Protection Act 2018 may also face criminal charges. Penalties can include fines and, in some cases, imprisonment. The legal landscape surrounding data breaches is complex and the implications of criminal law can depend on the specific circumstances of the breach. Therefore, legal advice from a solicitor specialising in data protection law is essential if you are involved in or affected by a data breach.

What happens when a company has a data breach?

When a company experiences a data breach, it faces a multitude of challenges and consequences. Immediate action is required to contain the breach and notify affected individuals, as well as the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) if personal data is involved.

The company may also need to cooperate with law enforcement if the breach is the result of criminal activity. Legal penalties may be imposed if the company is found to have violated data protection laws. Financial losses can occur, both from the immediate impact of the breach and from potential compensation claims. Reputational damage is another significant concern, as customer trust may be eroded. The long-term impact on the company's brand and market position can be profound. Engaging legal and cybersecurity professionals promptly is essential in managing the response to a data breach and mitigating its effects.

Who is liable when a data breach occurs?

Liability for a data breach typically falls on the party responsible for the breach, whether an individual or an organisation. This can include hackers who gain unauthorised access, employees who mishandle data, or companies that fail to implement adequate security measures. Determining liability can be a complex process, as it requires a thorough investigation of the breach and an understanding of the legal obligations of the parties involved. In some cases, multiple parties may share liability. If you are affected by a data breach, consulting with a solicitor specialising in data breach claims is essential. They can assist in identifying the liable parties, gathering evidence, and pursuing a claim for compensation if appropriate.

FAQs

Discover our Data Breach Resources