Capita Data Breach Update

On May 18, 2023, Derby City Council reported that it had been made aware of a data security incident related to one of its financial software providers, Capita.

Capita supplies the Council with a system that supports the Council Tax and Benefits service. The incident, which also affected several other local Councils across the country, relates to data collected in early 2021.

Derby City Council has now completed their investigation into the incident, which was set to understand the full extent of how its Council Tax and Benefits customers have been affected.

They have now released that the personal information affected by the data breach included names, addresses, reference numbers, income and capital details relating to Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support claims in payment at the time of the breach.

Derby City Council will be contacting individuals directly to make them aware, of where there could be an increased risk.

They have mentioned that their ‘priority is to protect individuals’ privacy rights and to ensure that personal data is protected’. They will continue to work with Capita and the Information Commissioners Office (ICO) to ensure that all appropriate actions are taken to address what has occurred.

As a precaution, the Council is advising its Council Tax and Benefits customers to be vigilant around potential risks. This includes monitoring for any suspicious or unsolicited communications, whether these are letters in the post, emails, or phone calls.

You can find more guidance on safeguarding your data after a breach below if you have been affected.

Safeguarding Your Information After a Data Breach

If you have been affected you are entitled to submit a claim for compensation. Click the button below to find out how.