The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) data breach has been described as one of the most serious incidents in UK policing history. More than two years later, thousands of officers and staff are still waiting for their claims to be resolved.
At Lacey Solicitors, we represent a number of affected officers and staff, supporting them through the legal process and working to ensure they receive fair compensation for the risks and distress caused.
The 2023 PSNI Data Breach
In August 2023, the PSNI mistakenly published the personal details of 9,483 officers and staff in response to a Freedom of Information request.
The data included:
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Surname and first initial of each employee
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Rank or grade
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Workplace location
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Department or unit details
Although the list was removed quickly, dissident republicans were confirmed to have accessed the data. This left officers and their families facing ongoing risks to their safety and privacy.
The Information Commissioner’s Office later fined the PSNI £750,000, calling it a failure of the highest significance.
Compensation Delays and Funding Disputes
The PSNI accepted liability soon after the breach, and legal proceedings began in October 2023. For much of 2024 and 2025, officers and staff were told that a “universal offer” of compensation was being prepared.
However, in September 2025, the High Court was informed that although the Department of Justice and Department of Finance had approved the business case, the PSNI could not afford to pay the estimated £100m as well as the legal costs incurred within its current budget.
This has left thousands of officers and staff frustrated, with many still waiting for answers more than two years on.
Political Efforts to Secure Treasury Support
First Minister Michelle O’Neill and Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly have confirmed that the Executive has made a “very strong case” to the Treasury for additional funding to meet the cost of compensation claims.
Both ministers acknowledged that the situation is “deeply frustrating” for those affected but insisted that discussions with Westminster are ongoing.
Criminal Case Highlights Seriousness
In March 2025, a man appeared in court on terrorism charges linked to the breach. He was accused of possessing spreadsheets containing details of PSNI officers and staff, along with devices allegedly connected to terrorist activity.
He denies all charges, and the case is ongoing. The fact that sensitive PSNI data appeared in terrorism-related proceedings highlights the real dangers faced by those whose information was exposed.
How Lacey Solicitors Are Assisting Clients
While funding and political disputes continue, officers and staff are left in uncertainty. At Lacey Solicitors, we are:
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Advising and guiding affected officers through the legal process
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Pursuing compensation claims on behalf of our clients
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Ensuring their voices are heard as delays continue
Ruaidhrí Austin, Partner in charge of Data Protection Claims for Lacey Solicitors said:
“The PSNI data breach caused lasting stress and anxiety for our clients. While responsibility has been accepted, the failure to resolve compensation claims has added to their frustration. We are committed to helping those affected secure the fair outcome they deserve.”
What Happens Next?
Test cases for PSNI data breach compensation are due to be heard in November 2025. The outcomes will help determine how thousands of individual claims are resolved.
Lacey Solicitors will continue to represent clients affected by the breach and provide support at every stage of the process.
Were You Affected by the PSNI Data Breach?
If you are a PSNI officer or member of staff whose details were exposed in the 2023 breach, you may be entitled to compensation.
Contact Lacey Solicitors today to speak confidentially with our team or use our secure online portal. We are here to advise you and protect your rights.
