Loose Woman faces ICO probe

Virtual Property World, the firm run by Loose Women star Lynda Bellingham and her husband Michael, is being investigated by the data watchdog after it inadvertently published thousands of customers’ personal details online.
Customers’ bank accounts, telephone numbers, addresses and house purchase details were available for all to see on the online estate agency, launched by the couple in 2007.
A source said: “Anyone can get hold of all this highly confidential information in just a couple of clicks. Everything from solicitors’ letters to contracts is there for all to see.”
The Information Commissioner’s Office has confirmed it will investigate the issue. A spokesman said: “We will certainly be looking into this as a possible breach.”
The ICO has the power to fine firms up to £500,000 for a serious data breach, although many instances are settled by a slap on the wrist and a warning over future conduct.
In response, Bellingham’s husband Michael said he believed the Virtual Property World site may have been hacked. He added: “The site is locked down now. I’m trying to get hold of my lawyers… I’m not going to say anymore because I don’t want to drop myself in it.”