NEARLY three quarters of North-east firms do not know they could be fined for failing to properly destroy computer data, a survey has revealed.

And nearly two thirds say people have gained unauthorised access to personal or confidential information held on their systems.

The survey, carried out by data shredding specialist Network 2 Supplies, asked organisations in the public and private sectors if they knew about new data protection rules on the destruction of confidential information.

Under the rules introduced last year, the Information Commissioner can now impose financial penalties of up to £500,000 for serious breaches of data protection laws.

Two organisations were fined last November in the first use of the new powers, which are designed to act as a deterrent and promote compliance with the Data Protection Act.

Network 2 Supplies said its survey findings were “a wake up call” for business.

Jack Gomarsall of Network 2 said: “Anyone who stores personal information on computer databases needs to make themselves aware of these new rules and act accordingly.

“Breaches of data protection rules can in some instances cause serious harm to people so it’s vital we take this issue seriously.

“Organisations have always had a duty of care to prevent unauthorised or accidental release of information about them.

“Now the penalties for failure to comply with this are severe.

“Consideration also needs to be given to the serious reputational harm which could be incurred.”

The survey quizzed representatives from nearly 400 organisations including businesses in the manufacturing and service sectors.

Interviewees were asked if they knew that individuals, directors and organisations could now be fined for not destroying data on equipment such as computer hard disks.

Just 22% of those asked in the North-east said they were aware of the new rules.