AIG reveals personal data theft

Giant insurer American International Group says personal data on 930,000 people has been stolen. A burglar stole computer equipment on March 31 [and they let us know almost 3 months later] from one of AIG's Midwest offices.

Companies have no incentives, negative or positive, to protect your data

Another in a continually growing long list of personal data losses by the corporate world. We are all being constantly urged to "secure" our computers, surf safely, and be alert to the threats around us. Yet those resposible for securing our private information - information we are forced to divulge - give little or no concern to its safety.

• Personal data on 2.2 million troops stolen
  
• Personal data of 26.5M veterans stolen
  
• Laptop theft compromises Hotels.com customer data


• Stolen Fidelity Laptop Exposes HP Workers


• Laptop theft puts data of 98,000 at risk

The headlines above are news stories you are probably familiar with.
Ernst & Young, three lost laptops in one 6 months period, so obviuosly they take security seriously. Is there a solution ?

Make the CEO responsible for data breaches

Martin McKeay, in a recent Computerworld Blog, presents some excellent ideas.

Until upper management feels a direct impact, either to the bottom line or their personal status, security breaches are going to continue.