In a country of 59 million, this is an amazing event. The data loses in the US have added up to around 219 million (which may have some overlap) out of a population of 303 million but it's been more of a bleed.
Two computer discs holding the personal details of all families in the UK with a child under 16 have gone missing.
The Child Benefit data on them includes name, address, date of birth, National Insurance number and, where relevant, bank details of 25m people.
In a true sign of bravery, the loss has been blamed on a "junior official" by Britain's Chancellor Alistair Darling. The Tories may be wrong about a lot of things but they are spot on with their criticism and people ought to be furious.
Moving forward, is there anyone in office who is taking action to prevent the next big loss either by government or private industry? There's plenty of talk, but this is an obvious problem and concern waiting for a resolution. (h/t to reader NP)
