UK Biobank Health Data for 500,000 Members Listed on Alibaba in China
The health information belonging to 500,000 individuals within the UK Biobank health data project was found advertised for sale online in China, according to confirmation from the UK government.
Technology Minister Ian Murray informed Members of Parliament that data from all members of the database had been listed on the Alibaba website. He stated that the charity overseeing UK Biobank notified the government of the breach on Monday.
Murray emphasised that the exposed information was 'de-identified', meaning it did not contain personally identifying details such as names, addresses, contact information, or telephone numbers. UK Biobank Chief Executive Professor Sir Rory Collins reiterated this point to participants, acknowledging their concern but reassuring them that no NHS numbers or dates of birth were included.
The Biobank project compiles a vast collection of health data, instrumental in research aimed at improving the detection and treatment of conditions including dementia, certain cancers, and Parkinson's disease.
The government was advised that no sales were completed from the three listings identified on the Alibaba platform. These listings have subsequently been removed. Both the UK and Chinese governments, alongside Alibaba, were thanked for their cooperation in addressing the incident.
A spokesperson for the Information Commissioner's Office acknowledged the incident, stating, 'People's medical data is highly sensitive information, not only do people expect it to be handled carefully and securely, organisations also have a responsibility under the law. UK Biobank has made us aware of an incident and we are making enquiries.'
