Multiple reasons for data loss

The loss or theft of confidential data from UK firms can be attributed to a range of factors, an independent research company has claimed.

Mike Spinney, communications director at the Ponemon Institute, said risky behaviour across all levels of organisations, and insufficient data management policies are undermining firms' security provision.

"Persistent data loss from organisations can be attributed to a combination of factors, including insufficient investments in data protection tools and a lack of training and awareness related to basic security techniques," he continued.

Some 61 per cent of marketing professionals experienced a data breach involving the loss or theft of consumer information over the past 24 months, according to the UK Study on Email Marketing Practices and Privacy, commissioned by email provider StrongMail.

In 90 per cent of these cases the loss or theft went unreported since those responsible felt that they were either not required to, or were unsure whether they had to report the incident to the affected customer.