This page outlines our policy regarding data matching.

 

Data matching exercises

Fair processing notice

Introduction

We take part in data matching exercises to assist in the prevention and detection of fraud. This is one of the ways in which we meet our responsibility of promoting economy, efficiency and effectiveness in the use of public money.

 

Data matching involves comparing sets of our data, such as the payroll, council tax, business rates or benefits records, against other records held by us or other bodies to see how far they match. The data is usually personal information and is therefore carefully protected by ourselves and other bodies taking part in the process.

 

Data matching allows potentially fraudulent claims, reductions and payments to be identified. Where a match is found it indicates that there is an inconsistency that requires further investigation. No assumption can be made as to whether there is fraud, error or other explanation until an investigation is carried out.

 

The processing of personal information by us for data matching exercises is carried out in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1988; specifically under section 29 of that act, we do not require the consent of the individuals concerned.

 

All bodies participating in the data matching exercises receive a report of matches that they should investigate, so as to detect instances of fraud, over or under payments and other errors, to take remedial action and update their records accordingly.

 

Further information

 

For more information please email Daren Nowlan, Head of Revenues and Benefits|.