Over 100 British officials had their identities exposed in a data breach that also endangered the lives of numerous Afghans who collaborated with British forces during the Afghanistan conflict. Reports indicate that nearly 19,000 Afghans who sought resettlement in the UK had their personal information inadvertently leaked, prompting a response from the British government amidst fears of Taliban reprisal. Following a judicial ruling lifting a gag order, it has come to light that detailed case notes were part of the breach, ultimately leading to a fast-tracked resettlement scheme aimed at displaced Afghans.
Data Breach Exposes Identities of British Officials in Afghanistan Crisis
Data Breach Exposes Identities of British Officials in Afghanistan Crisis
A significant data leak has compromised the identities of British officials, including special forces and MI6 members, putting thousands of Afghans at risk following the UK's military withdrawal.
The accidental leak occurred when an individual at UK Special Forces headquarters misdirected emails containing over 30,000 resettlement applications. Defence Secretary John Healey labeled the incident a "serious departmental error," with many fearing for the safety of their relatives in Afghanistan amidst rising tensions. Ministry of Defence representatives insist that security measures are in place, but the impact of the breach continues to weigh heavily on affected individuals and families.
