The UK government has come under fire after a significant data breach exposed the personal details of Afghan nationals eligible for resettlement in Britain. The leak, described as a "serious security failure" by Shadow Defence Secretary John Healey, has raised urgent concerns over the safety of those affected.
What Was Leaked?
The compromised data included names, contact information, and notes on individuals' eligibility for relocation under the Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP). Many of those affected had worked with British forces during the Afghanistan conflict, putting them at particular risk if identified by Taliban authorities.
Government Response
While officials confirmed the breach occurred, they claimed the exposed information wasn't classified as "secret" under government protocols. However, critics argue this distinction does little to mitigate the potential dangers faced by vulnerable Afghans whose details were compromised.
Security Implications
The incident has sparked broader questions about data protection protocols within the Ministry of Defence and Home Office. With ARAP applications being processed amid the chaotic 2021 Kabul evacuation, concerns are mounting about whether proper safeguards were implemented during the rushed relocation effort.
John Healey has demanded immediate action to address the breach and prevent future occurrences, calling it "unacceptable" that those who supported UK forces now face additional risks due to administrative failures.
