Computers stolen from Parliament

14 October 2011

Two computers are stolen from Parliament on average every month, an MP has revealed.

In total, 25 computers and six mobile phones were reported stolen over the last 12 months, with 10 computers vanishing in May alone.

Conservative MP, John Thurso, outlined the problem of government computer theft and told MPs: "The House authorities and the Metropolitan Police have jointly implemented a crime prevention plan, including strong advice to lock up valuable items and to lock office doors at the end of the working day.”

The news comes six months after a Home Affairs Select Committee chairman, Keith Vaz, reported a case of laptop theft and iPad theft from his Westminster office.

Physical IT security expert LapSafe® Products is concerned that laptop theft and computer security lapses within the public sector can have negative consequences.

If a laptop containing sensitive personal information, or confidential Government projects, falls into the wrong hands, the upshot could be devastating. Not only could deadlines be disrupted if desktop files or software is lost, but, if confidential Government files were leaked to the press, the ensuing public uproar could significantly damage a party’s or politician’s reputation. Even more worryingly, client and public safety could be severely compromised if sensitive personal details were passed on to blackmailers.

Not only will an organisation have to source equipment to replace stolen laptops, but public sector authorities could face hefty fines. Since April 2010, the ICO has had the authority to issue monetary penalties of up to £500,000 to those in serious breach of the Data Protection Act. As a result, the public purse may have to foot the bill for lapses in IT security at a time of economic hardship.

In February 2011, Ealing and Hounslow Councils were fined a total of £150,000 by the body, following the loss of two unencrypted laptops, containing the details of around 1,700 people.

To find out how to secure your IT from theft, click here.