British banks accused of lax data security

LONDON, Oct. 28 (UPI) -- Reports of loan applications and personal financial statements being tossed with the trash have sparked a probe into the disposal practices of British banks.

Information Commissioner Richard Thomas told the Times of London he had "highly disturbing" evidence that papers containing personal information can be found in trash bags left on the street -- in plain sight of would-be identity thieves. Thomas said he was considering hefty fines against financial institutions engaging in the "unacceptable practice."

"There have been cases now ... which we are urgently investigating, of banks' rubbish bags found on the public highway outside banks," Thomas said.

Both customers and bank employees have complained to Thomas' office about lax security regarding personal information.

Scotland authorities say gangs have infiltrated about 10 percent of Glasgow's financial call centers, stealing customers' identities then fleecing them, the Times said.