Private security lapses fuel £1.7bn yearly crime losses
11/07/2007 16:21

Security lapses made by banks, shops and even government departments are playing a major role in supporting criminal activity in the UK.

Reports suggest that around £1.7 billion a year is stolen as a result of identity theft and other similar attacks – promoting the importance of protective devices such as paper shredders.

Richard Thomas, the Information Commissioner, has now rounded on companies that have been caught dumping personal information, which should really be destroyed by paper shredders or properly disposed of.

"Over the last year we have seen far too many careless and inexcusable breaches of people's personal information. The roll call of banks, retailers, government departments, public bodies and other organisations which have admitted serious security lapses is frankly horrifying.

"Business and public sector leaders must take their data protection obligations more seriously."

The public's awareness of data protection rights hit an all-time high of 82 per cent in a recent study and it would clearly be beneficial to offices and homes across the UK to invest in paper shredders to ensure personal information is not easily leaked.

Concerned consumers can pick up a paper shredder from Paperstone.co.uk from as little as £21.65 – a simple measure which could potentially save businesses and householders thousands.

At Paperstone we can supply your firm with a wide selection of office supplies.