The Ministry of Defence has apologised and launched an investigation into a data breach that has 'needlessly put lives at risk' by revealing the email addresses of more than 250 Afghan interpreters who worked for British forces. An email sent by the MoD to interpreters seeking relocation to the UK mistakenly copied in their email addresses, making them visible to all recipients.
The ministry says it has contacted those affected and is offering advice on managing potential risks. Many interpreters are in hiding from the Taliban, which seized power in August as Western forces withdrew. While over 17,000 people were evacuated by the UK, chaotic scenes at Kabul airport left many who assisted British troops behind.
The email came from the Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (Arap), which helps those still in Afghanistan or neighbouring countries. One interpreter told the BBC: 'This mistake could cost the life of interpreters, especially for those who are still in Afghanistan.' Defence Secretary Ben Wallace called it an 'unacceptable breach'. Former defence minister Johnny Mercer said it likely meant translators would be 'moving house again tonight'.
Shadow defence secretary John Healey said: 'We told these Afghan interpreters we would keep them safe, instead this breach has needlessly put lives at risk.' He noted this is the second major MoD data breach this year, after sensitive documents were found at a bus stop in June. An MoD spokesperson said an investigation has been launched and they are taking all necessary steps under UK GDPR.
