The recent inadvertent disclosure of personal data at some major financial institutions in Jamaica has signalled the need for organisations to take a very robust approach to the way in which they handle the personal data of customers. Organisations may face significant penalties and fines for failing to properly handle the personal data of its customers in a safe, secure, and confidential manner.

Under the Banking Services Act, there is a general duty of confidentiality or secrecy imposed upon employees and agents of financial institutions as it relates to customer information. Any employee or agent of a financial institution who unlawfully divulges or reveals any information regarding a customer account commits a criminal offence under the Act and may be liable to a fine of up to $7.5 million or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years.

http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/business-observer/how-to-avoid-a-personal-data_188018