Should You Claim If You Have Been Victim of a Data Breach?

When a company suffers a data breach, your personal information may be exposed to criminals, leading to potential financial losses, stress, or identity theft. 

Recent breaches involving companies like Capita, South Staffs Water, Arnold Clark, Moveit, and Zellis have put many individuals at risk. In fact, more than 8,000 people took action against Capita for a data breach last year. 

If you are affected, claiming compensation is a way to address the impact on your finances, emotional well-being, and privacy.

A data breach can involve the loss or theft of sensitive information such as names, addresses, bank details, or even medical records. 

This data can be used for fraudulent activities, including unauthorized purchases or opening accounts in your name. 

For instance, identity theft can cause stress and time-consuming efforts to resolve. Financial institutions, healthcare providers, retail companies, and even social media platforms are among those whose breaches can significantly harm individuals.

What Are Typical Claims You Could Make?

Typical claims for compensation after a data breach include financial losses such as stolen funds or costs associated with identity theft, including legal fees or credit monitoring services. You may also claim for emotional distress caused by the breach, particularly if sensitive data was exposed. 

For example, medical information leaks can be deeply personal and cause significant anxiety or embarrassment. Some claims even address the inconvenience caused by resolving the aftermath, such as changing passwords, contacting banks, or monitoring accounts for fraud.

How Can I Pursue a Claim?

To pursue a compensation claim, you can often seek help from a law firm specializing in data breach cases. These firms understand how to prove that a company failed to protect your information adequately. The claim process usually involves gathering evidence, such as notifications of the breach and records of any financial or emotional harm you’ve experienced. Many law firms offer a no-win, no-fee arrangement, so you only pay if your claim succeeds.

Gavin Cooper, director at Claims Bible explains: “Companies like Capita and Zellis have experienced high-profile breaches that may have affected thousands.” 

“If you received a notification from a company informing you that your data was part of a breach, this serves as evidence to begin your claim. Law firms will assess your situation for a data breach claim and determine the amount of compensation you may be entitled to.”

Compensation amounts vary depending on the severity of the breach and its impact on you. Financial losses are easier to calculate, while emotional distress is evaluated on a case-by-case basis. For instance, a person who experienced financial fraud or significant mental anguish may receive a higher payout than someone who only had to change their passwords.

If you suspect your data was compromised, consider contacting a law firm to understand your rights. They can guide you through the process, ensuring you receive compensation for financial losses, emotional harm, or both. Taking action not only helps you recover but also holds companies accountable for safeguarding personal information.