University Of Buckingham Data Breach Compensation Claims Guide
Within this guide, we are going to look at Buckingham University data breach claims in greater length. After all, the aftermath of a data breach can be incredibly impactful, having the potential to cause various degrees of psychological trauma and financial loss.
University of Buckingham data breach claims guide
Understandably, if you have been affected by a breach, you may consider taking legal action. Within this guide, we aim to provide you with valuable information regarding data breach compensation claims. You will have a greater understanding of the claims process too.
More specifically, you will understand how a solicitor could offer to handle your case under a No Win No Fee agreement.
In the meantime, if you happen to have any questions relating to your case or this guide, please feel free to contact our claims team. The number to call is 0800 073 8804.
Select A Section
- A Guide To Data Breach Claims Against The University Of Buckingham
- What Is A Data Breach By Buckingham University?
- How Should Universities Adapt To The GDPR?
- Which Universities Have Suffered Data Protection Incidents?
- Higher Education Data Breach Statistics
- What Is Data Theft And Criminal Attacks?
- What Types Of Compensation Could I Be Eligible To Claim?
- Calculating Data Breach Compensation Claims Against Buckingham University
- Choose A Lawyer Who Handles Data Protection Claims
- No Win No Fee Data Breach Claims Against Buckingham University
- Contact Us
- Helpful Information
A Guide To Data Breach Claims Against The University Of Buckingham
As a society, businesses have become overly reliant on technology, and in return, our personal data has become increasingly more valuable. For instance, whenever we purchase new clothes online, sign up for new services like the gym, or even when we enrol at a university, our personal information is used and stored by these organisations.
In order for our information to be used and stored safely, there are notable laws that have been set in place. For example, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), enacted into UK law by the Data Protection Act 2018 has had a significant impact on data protection. But despite these policies establishing a foundation for organisations to adhere to, data breaches can still occur.
Throughout this guide, we aim to address critical questions relating to the claims process, such as:
- What is a data breach?
- What happens when data is breached?
- How many data breaches are there in 2020?
- Could I make a claim for a Buckingham University data breach?
By the time you have read this guide to the very end, you will have the answers to the questions mentioned above, plus many others. However, we would like to outline that the claims process is complex, and the variables in question can vary from case to case.
Therefore, if we fail to address or touch upon something that has significance in your data breach case, please do not worry. All you have to do is reach out and speak to one of our advisers. Thankfully, our claims team is well-versed in the law, which means they can provide free legal advice and support.
Time Limit
In order for a solicitor to take on your compensation claim, your case must meet certain criteria. For instance, in order for a solicitor to take on your claim, your case must be made within a certain period of time.
It would be best if you began your Buckingham university data breach case within 6-years from the date you obtained knowledge of the breach. If a data breach compromises your human rights, you would have 1-year to make your case.
While 6-years may sound like a lengthy period of time, we strongly advise that you reach out and begin your claim as soon as possible.
In starting your claim quickly, it provides your solicitor with time to build your case and collect evidence.
Failing to meet the applicable time limit could ultimately affect the eligibility of your case. If you are unsure whether your claim meets the requirements outlined above, please reach out and speak to one of our advisers.
Thankfully, our claims team are incredibly knowledgeable, and with their support, they can help you with your case.
What Is A Data Breach By Buckingham University?
In short, a data breach is when your personal information is stolen, misused, or compromised. In return, the aftermath of a data breach can be significant, potentially resulting in financial loss and psychological trauma.
The cause of a data breach can often vary, but the information that is affected can remain the same. For instance, if a Buckingham university data breach were to occur, it could compromise the following types of data:
- Mobile number
- Home address
- Banking information
- Email address
- Usernames
- Passwords
Both students and employees of Buckingham University could have grounds to make a claim if they have suffered a data breach. As an employer and an institution, the University of Buckingham must ensure that all personal information is stored securely.
If you can prove that you have suffered financial or mental damage due to a Buckingham University data breach, then please reach out and contact our claims team. They’re well versed in the law, which means they can discuss your case, offer advice, and help you kick-start your potential case.
How Should Universities Adapt To The GDPR?
We previously touched upon the critical laws and regulations that have been set in place to ensure personal data is kept safe. The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a prime example of this. The GDPR was enacted into UK law by the Data Protection Act 2018.
Not only does the GDPR allow individuals to control how their data is being used, but it ensures organisations act lawfully and ethically. To provide clarity, we have included details of the roles and responsibilities set out by the GDPR:
- The Data Subject — this is the individual whose data is being collected, used and stored.
- Data Controller — the individual/organisation responsible for outlining how, when and why your data is processed.
- A Data Processor — often acts on behalf of the data controller, helping collect information.
What measures did the GDPR set in place?
In addition to the roles outlined above, the GDPR has established some measures that must be taken, such as:
- Data controllers are required to keep documentation that outlines they are adhering to data protection law.
- The data subject and must be fully informed of how and why their data is being used/processed.
- All information must be updated and meet the required measures outlined by law.
Although there are rules and regulations set in place that promote ethical and lawful data standards, there are unfortunate circumstances where breaches can occur. The aftermath of a data breach could have a significant impact on your health, well-being and finances.
One of our No Win No Fee solicitors could offer to handle your claim on the grounds you can provide evidence. With the support of a solicitor by your side, they can assist you through the claims process, ensuring you receive an accurate amount of compensation and the justice you deserve.
Which Universities Have Suffered Data Protection Incidents?
In this section of the guide, we wanted to include a case study that explores previous claims made against the University for data breach-related incidents. While there are no data breach claims that have been made against Buckingham University (at the time of writing), we wanted to include a case study to provide you with knowledge and insight.
The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) issued a £120,000 fine against The University of Greenwich for serious data security infringement. The ICO conducted an investigation and found that after an event showcasing a microsite created by an academic and student, the site wasn’t properly closed down. As a result, the website’s vulnerability allowed hackers to gain access and obtain information involving nearly 20,000 people.
Another example of a breach that impacted a number of universities, including the University of Leeds and the University of Birmingham, was the Blackbaud hack. In May 2020, Blackbaud was struck by a ransomware attack, a form of computer virus that encrypts data files and issues the organisation with a ransom to regain access. Blackbaud decided to pay this ransom, yet there’s no guarantee that the accessed data was destroyed by the criminals.
At the time of writing, the ICO has yet to release its findings on the Blackbaud breach. It’s been reported that a number of affected individuals have made claims, but it should be noted that a claim would likely be pursued against Blackbaud as opposed to the universities.
To learn more, please get in touch.
Higher Education Data Breach Statistics
Cyber attacks are becoming more of a pressing matter, and in return, businesses and organisations are required to provide suitable training and carry our safety measures.
A recent report by internet security firm Redscan found that 54% of UK universities had reported a data breach to the ICO in the preceding 12 months of the publication of the report.
It was also stated that many universities failed to provide both members of staff and students with the training and resources to combat data breaches.
All of this information was acquired by a Freedom of Information Request (FOI) submitted by Redscan.
Read the report: https://www.redscan.com/news/state-of-cybersecurity-uk-universities-foi-report
What Is Data Theft And Criminal Attacks?
Here are some of the most common ways our data could be breached:
Physical actions
We often think of data breach cases that relate to a technological error. However, there are cases where a human could be at fault. For example, some of the most common physical incidents involve emails being sent to the wrong people, the theft of paperwork or losing devices containing private information.
Unauthorised use
Unfortunately, there are circumstances where employees may access unauthorised information. There are two types of scenarios that cause an incident like this. One, privilege abuse — such as managers misusing information. Two, employees could gain access to information without consent.
Malware
Cybercriminals often use malware for various reasons, and one of the most common is gaining access to private information. For example, many hackers try to install keyloggers into computers that track and record your keyboard usage — allowing them to guess passwords.
Social engineering
Social engineering often refers to threats such as phishing or scammers pretending to be an organisation.
What Types Of Compensation Could I Be Eligible To Claim?
If you happen to be affected by a Buckingham University data breach, you may question whether you could be awarded compensation. The answer to that question is yes, granted you can supply evidence to support your claim.
Data breach compensation is broken into two categories:
- Material Damages — damages of this nature are awarded to those who endured financial loss from a data breach.
- Non-Material Damages — damages of this nature are often awarded to those who suffer from psychological trauma from a data breach, such as depression, stress, PTSD, and anxiety.
In order to receive compensation for any damages you’ve endured, you will be required to provide evidence to support your claim. For instance, if you have experienced a financial loss, you will be required to provide documentation to support your claims—such as bank statements, receipts, and credit reports.
If you have endured psychological trauma due to a Buckingham University data breach, then you would be required to attend a medical assessment with an impartial medical professional. Upon attending a medical examination, you will be asked a series of questions concerning your injury. The medical expert will also determine the severity of your injury and determine whether there are any future implications.
Their findings will be put in a report that will be used to prove that the damage was caused by the data breach, as well as enabling your solicitor to place a value on that damage.
Calculating Data Breach Compensation Claims Against Buckingham University
The case of Vidal-Hall and others v Google Inc [2015] opened the door to victims of data breaches. Before this case, it was necessary to prove financial damage in order to seek compensation for psychological harm. However, it was decided by the Court of Appeal that compensation could be sought for either form of harm.
To help claimants determine the value of psychological injuries such as distress, anxiety and depression, the Court recommended that guidance be taken from personal injury law.
To that end, we have included a compensation table to outline how the type of injury, its severity, and long-term implications can influence the compensation process. The Judicial College Guidelines provide this information.
| Injury | Severity | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| PTSD | Less Severe | Up to £7,680 | Will make a full recovery within 2-years with minimal affects. |
| PTSD | Moderately Severe | £21,730 to £56,180 | With the support of a medical professional, great progress can be made. However, certain implications and health concerns will still prevail. |
| PTSD | Severe | £56,180 to £94,470 | PTSD of this nature will be life-altering, impacting both social and professional life. |
| Mental Anguish | Serious | £4,380 | The individual will have a fear of death/quality of life reduction. |
| Psychiatric Damage Generally | Moderately Severe | £17,900 to £51,460 | Cases involving psychiatric injury following a negligent stillbirth or the traumatic birth of a child will often fall within this bracket.
Cases of work-related stress resulting in a permanent or long-standing disability preventing a return to comparable employment would appear to come within this category. |
| Psychiatric Damage Generally | Severe | £51,460 to £108,620 | In these cases, the following factors will be taken into account:
The injured person’s ability to cope with life, education, and work; |
In the table above, we looked at psychological trauma compensation estimates in greater detail, but it is worth noting that financial loss could be factored into your claim.
In order for financial losses to be factored into your claim, you will be required to provide evidence. Thankfully, you can provide various forms of financial documentation, such as bank statements, credit scores, and receipts.
To gain an estimated figure that is aligned with your injuries and losses, please reach out and speak to our team today.
Choose A Lawyer Who Handles Data Protection Claims
Finding the right lawyer to handle your case is extremely important, as it can be the difference between a successful and unsuccessful claim. Solicitors often have different levels of expertise and experience, so rightfully, you may question how you can find the right solicitor to handle your case.
Many claimants searching for legal representation take to the internet to further their knowledge of the claims process. More specifically, client reviews can be extremely valuable, as they offer insight into the firm’s success rate, the service they provide, and whether previous clients had a positive experience. If you would like to read our reviews, please click here.
Here at Legal Expert, we would strongly recommend that you reach out and speak to an adviser after reading our reviews. By speaking over the phone or in person, you have the opportunity to ask relevant questions and we can even connect you to one of our No Win No Fee data breach solicitors.
No Win No Fee Data Breach Claims Against Buckingham University
The aftermath of a Buckingham University data breach can be incredibly impactful, possibly resulting in psychological trauma and financial loss. If you have suffered a loss due to a Buckingham University data breach, then it is more than understandable to consider legal action.
We frequently hear from claimants who intend to take legal action against a negligent third party, but their financial concerns often stand in their way. After all, finding affordable legal representation can be a stressful experience.
Here at Legal Expert, we firmly believe everybody should be able to seek the compensation and justice they deserve, and it is for that exact reason why our solicitors operate on a No Win No Fee basis.
Should one of our solicitors agree to take on your claim under a No Win No Fee agreement, then you would have access to the following benefits:
- There are no start-up fees to pay, allowing you to begin your case as soon as possible.
- There are zero fees or payments to be made while the claim is ongoing.
- Should your solicitor fail to attain a settlement after taking on the case under a No Win No Fee agreement, then, you wouldn’t have to cover their legal fees.
Upon the grounds your case is successful, your solicitor will retain a small percentage of the settlement—also referred to as a success fee. By law, the fee is capped, so you do not have to worry about losing a large portion of your settlement. To discover whether our solicitors could take on your case under an agreement of this nature, please reach out and speak to our team today.
We look forward to hearing from you.
Contact Us if you have suffered due to a Buckingham university data breach.
Now that you have read our Buckingham University data breach guide, you may feel confident in beginning your case. Alternatively, you may have some follow up questions you would like to ask an experienced professional. Regardless of your circumstances, our claims team are here to help.
Our team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. So, if you would like to speak with an adviser and access free legal advice, please use one of the following methods:
- Telephone: 0800 073 8804
- Live Chat: Click the icon on the right side of the webpage.
- Online Form: please click here.
Helpful Information regarding Buckingham university data breach cases
As we enter the final section of this guide, we would like to take this opportunity to thank you for reading. As the claims process can often appear daunting, we have gone one step further and included some additional resources. Below, we have included links to relevant guides and websites that will help those intending to pursue a Buckingham university data breach claim.
Want to learn more about No Win No Fee agreements? Please take a look at our guide.
Has your employer breached their duty of care and caused you to suffer as a direct result? Please take a look at our guide to learn how we could assist you.
Birmingham Univesity Data Breach Guide
Want to learn more about university data breach cases? Why not read our guide.
Other Useful Compensation Guides
- Teesside University Data Breach
- The Arts University Bournemouth Data Breach
- The Open University Data Breach
- Transform Hospital Group Data Breach
- University of Aberdeen Data Breach
- University of Bedfordshire Data Breach
- University of Bradford Data Breach
- University of Brighton Data Breach
- Can I Get Compensation For Loss of Medical Records?
- University of Cambridge Data Breach
- University of Central Lancashire Data Breach
- University of Cumbria Data Breach
- University of East Anglia Data Breach
- University of Edinburgh Data Breach
- University of Glasgow Data Breach
- University of Gloucestershire Data Breach
- University of Huddersfield Data Breach
- University of Hull Data Breach
- University of Kent Data Breach
- University of Lincoln Data Breach
- Data Breach Solicitors
Additional Resources:
Buckingham university data breach FAQs
Do I need to find a local solicitor?
In short, the answer is no. A solicitor can offer to handle your case regardless of location. Almost all communication is done via:
- Phone.
- Email.
- In-writing.
- Or conducted in face-to-face meetings.
How long do you get to report a data breach?
Once a company has uncovered a data breach, they have 72 hours to inform The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO). They must also inform those affected without undue delay.
Thanks for reading our guide on what to do if you fall victim to a Buckingham University data breach.
Guide by Brennan
Edited by Billing
