ICO to probe rogue private eyes

The murky world of private investigators is set to be blown wide open after the data watchdog revealed it is gunning for rogue practitioners who tarnish the industry’s reputation.
Information Commissioner Christopher Graham has said it is time to “shine a light” on the sector to remove any criminal elements that breach the Data Protection Act.
The ICO has written to all private investigations firms, public authorities who use them, and the police to examine the extent of the problem. The ICO is also urging members of the public who have evidence of private investigators breaching the Act to blow the gaff.
The spotlight fell on private investigators compliance with the Data Protection Act during the Leveson Inquiry and the Home Affairs Select Committee.
The ICO campaign aims to uncover whether a wider problem exists. Graham said: “By shining a light into the darkest corners of the private investigation industry we are aiming to root out any criminal elements that continue to cause public concern and blight the professional reputation of their counterparts.
“We believe the majority of private investigators go about their business in compliance with the Data Protection Act. The fact that less scrupulous professionals may be trying to take shortcuts by illegally accessing people’s data is, quite simply, wrong. This is why they must be identified and stopped using the enforcement powers available, including monetary penalties of up to £500,000 for serious breaches of the Act.
The watchdog is urging anyone who has information that would aid its investigation to get in touch. It will report back on its findings in the summer.