Client Blog: First UK Data Leak Class Action - Morrisons Supermarket Liable


In the first data leak class action in the UK, Morrisons has been found liable for the actions of a former employee who stole the data of co-workers, posted it online and sent it to newspapers.
Employees brought a claim against the supermarket after the former worker, Andrew Skelton, stole the payroll information of almost 100,000 staff. Apparently, the revenge attack occurred after Skelton was accused of dealing “legal highs” at work.
Lawyers said the data theft meant 5,518 former and current employees were exposed to the risk of identity theft and potential financial loss and that the company was responsible for breaches of privacy, confidence and data protection laws.
However, Morrisons will be appealing against the ruling, as it believes it should not have been held responsible for the security breach, which occurred in 2014. Skelton was found guilty of fraud, securing unauthorised access to computer material and disclosing data in 2015 and sent to prison.
But for the moment, the High Court has ruled that Morrisons was vicariously liable. This landmark ruling now allows those affected to claim compensation for the “significant worry, stress and inconvenience” caused.
It is also another significant case for those who are concerned about their GDPR compliance. No doubt, this type of case will increase in respect of any similar data leaks after the new GDPR rules come into force.
Seymours offers clients a wide variety of legal advice and assistance.  If you would like to discuss a civil law matter, please contact Andrew Hardy or Simon Newbold at Seymours Solicitors on law@seymours.co.uk Leamington 01926 350031, Coventry 024 76 553961
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