Missing disc search spreads to NI

The discs containing the data were unencrypted

The search for the missing child benefit data discs has spread to Belfast, it has emerged.

Two computer discs, containing 25m claimants' details, went missing after being put into the internal post at HM Revenue and Customs in Tyne and Wear.

Premises of TNT, which delivers HMRC mail have been searched as part of the hunt for the discs.

Royal Mail are also checking their National Returns Centre in Belfast, which handles undeliverable mail.

In a statement Royal Mail said that HMRC had asked them to carry out the check, but said HMRC had told them "there is no reason to suppose that the package has mistakenly been put into the Royal Mail system".

A junior HMRC employee has been blamed for the loss of the discs.

On Saturday, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) confirmed that a further six data discs had gone missing in transit between its offices in Preston and London.

The discs, which were reported missing on 30 October, contained recorded conversations between a member of staff and a customer making a complaint.

The first two missing discs hold the personal details of all families in the UK with a child under 16.

The data on them includes the name, address, date of birth, National Insurance number and, where relevant, bank details of 25 million people.

The discs were intended for the National Audit Office (NAO) in London, but never arrived from HMRC's office in Washington, Tyne and Wear.

People affected by the loss of the child benefit discs are being asked to check their bank accounts for any "irregular activity", but have been told there is no need to close accounts as the details would not be sufficient to allow fraudsters to access them.

However, they are advised not to give out personal or account details "requested unexpectedly" by phone or e-mail.