Crime

UK police data stored on Microsoft cloud platform assessed as vulnerable

The Guardian · September 18, 2026Original source ↗

UK police data stored on Microsoft cloud platform assessed as vulnerable

What happened

An official UK security assessment found that sensitive police data stored on Microsoft cloud platforms is at risk of compromise by foreign actors and the US government. The data includes criminal records, victim statements, and internal emails from over 40 police forces in the UK.

Why it matters

The security of police data is critical for maintaining public trust and ensuring the integrity of the criminal justice system.

How this story affects people

How does this story affect you if you are a victim of crime in the UK?

Your sensitive information, including victim statements, could be at risk of being accessed by unauthorized parties. This breach of privacy could undermine your trust in the police and the criminal justice system's ability to protect your data.

How does this story affect you if you work in law enforcement in the UK?

The integrity of internal communications and sensitive police data you rely on may be compromised, affecting your ability to perform your duties effectively. This situation could lead to increased scrutiny and challenges in maintaining public confidence in law enforcement.

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