Last Wednesday, a computer drive of Ministry of Defence, which contained details of as many as 1.7 million people who had shown interest in joining the armed forces, was reported to be missing, This drive used to be functioned with a recruitment system. 

On Monday, Armed Forces Minister Bob Ainsworth informed that in the worst of case, the drive could contain details of 1.7 million people. However, the details would only have the information about their names and contacts. 

Through a written statement, he informed, “But for those who applied to join the forces, more extensive personal data may be held. In some cases this would include data such as bank details, passport, National Insurance and National Health Service numbers, driver's license information and details of next of kin.”

Ainsworth further informed that it is believed by the EDS, that it is doubtful that data was encrypted, as the drive had been kept in a secure area at its premises in Hook, Hampshire. In order to monitor accounts for unauthorized access, the banks were informed immediately. To help those who were afraid that they might be affected, a helpline was also set up. 

Ainsworth lastly said, “The loss came to light after EDS conducted an audit of its data-handling procedures to comply with new government guidelines brought in after details of 25 million child benefit claimants were lost by the Revenue and Customs department.”