Let’s hear it for the taxman

Not a sentiment you will often hear. However, Her Majesty’s Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has been rightly applauded over the matter of a stolen laptop. Not for the actual theft, of course, but for the security measures the laptop contained (password protection and ‘powerful’ encryption software) and, in particular, HMRC’s openness and honesty in coming clean about the incident quickly.

The potential loss of one’s personal data is a serious concern, so it is vital that anyone affected gets to hear about the event as quickly as possible. Full marks to the taxmen for their professional conduct and to Silicon.com for its Full Disclosure campaign, which is putting some welcome and well directed pressure on the government.