The intruders managed to gain access to one of the floors occupied by the Civil Service’s Corporate Human Resources office from where a number of laptop computers were stolen. In accordance with Northern Ireland Civil Service data security procedures all of the laptops were password-protected.
In view of the nature of Corporate HR’s business, namely strategic personnel issues for the Northern Ireland Civil Service, the Department of Finance and Personnel is currently conducting an urgent investigation into what information was stored on these laptops and what risk, if any, may be posed to civil servant’s personal data.
In light of that analysis, we will ensure that staff are notified accordingly and advised what precautions, if any, are appropriate.
The PSNI are currently conducting an investigation into the break-in.
Notes to Editors:
Media enquiries to DFP Communications Office on 028 9052 7374 or 028 9052 27375. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
