The UK’s independent data privacy watchdog, the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), has expressed significant concerns regarding how police forces across the country handle crucial digital evidence, specifically CCTV footage. The watchdog’s criticism stems from instances where important video evidence has been lost or mishandled, potentially compromising investigations and impacting the pursuit of justice.
According to the ICO, failures in police systems and procedures have led to valuable CCTV footage being unavailable when needed. This includes issues with storing, retrieving, and managing the vast amounts of data collected from public and private surveillance systems. The watchdog highlighted that losing such evidence isn’t just an administrative issue; it can have serious consequences for victims, suspects, and the overall integrity of the legal process.
The problems identified range from technical difficulties and outdated equipment to insufficient training for officers and staff on data protection principles and proper evidence handling protocols. Without reliable processes in place, the risk of vital footage expiring, being overwritten, or simply becoming untraceable increases dramatically.
The ICO emphasizes that effective and lawful handling of personal data, including CCTV footage, is fundamental to policing. It’s not only a requirement under data protection laws but also essential for maintaining public trust. When evidence goes missing, it can erode confidence in the police’s ability to conduct thorough investigations and secure convictions.
In light of these findings, the watchdog is urging police forces to review and significantly improve their data management practices for CCTV. This includes investing in appropriate technology, implementing clear and robust policies, and ensuring personnel receive adequate training. The ICO has indicated it will continue to monitor the situation and may take further action if necessary to ensure compliance with data protection standards and prevent the loss of critical evidence in the future. The message is clear: better data handling is paramount for effective and trustworthy policing.
Source: https://go.theregister.com/feed/www.theregister.com/2025/05/30/uk_data_watchdog_found_police/
