Human traffickers, sex workers and the forged passport risk from the missing data - Barry Stamp, co-founder of the Credit Reporting Agency, looks at where you stand legally and who will pay if your missing data is abused.
- Why lost data is inevitable
The problem today isn't that we are more careless with data, the problem is the power of computing and the internet means when data is lost, it is lost in staggering amounts.
- Apologetic PM orders security check
Prime Minister Gordon Brown apologised "profoundly" for the loss of the sensitive data, as thousands of people rang hotlines with worries about the security of their details.
- Editors' blog: what the papers say
The papers reacted to the news with a mixture of scathing condemnation for Alistair Darling and fear over the scale of the crisis.
- Lost in the post: your personal data
Despite assurances from chancellor Alistair Darling, the lost data fiasco has prompted statements of disbelief and incredulity from the financial industry and the public alike.
- Darling admits 25 million child benefit records lost
HM Revenue and Customs has lost two computer disks containing the personal, banking and National Insurance details of some 25 million Britons receiving child benefits.
- Worried about the safety of your personal data?
We examine the precautions you can take to can guard against ID fraud.
- Time for Darling to move over
How completely unsurprising that the government could be so disgustingly, appallingly incompetent. Shame on them, says MSN Money's Consumer Champion.
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Official advice
Your child benefit payments will not be disrupted. The HMRC has set up a helpline for anyone who has concerns about the security of their data. Call 0845 302 1444 for the Child Benefit helpline, or visit the Apacs website for more information.
The lost data debate
- Your reaction to the lost child benefit data
Almost all of you, our users, have had enough and don't think the government can be trusted with your details.
- Share your thoughts about the missing information
Read what MSN Money's users have to say about the loss of the child benefit data, and join the debate yourself.
Poll
- With HRMC losing more confidential financial data about 25 million Britons, do you still trust the government with your details?
- Yes - if you can't trust the government who can you trust?
4% - No - this is just the latest in a long line of mistakes.
79% - Let's find out the full story before we make our minds up.
17%
- Yes - if you can't trust the government who can you trust?