A leak of the Gangs Matrix database by a London borough raised significant concerns about the safety and privacy of young people.

An "unknown" official at London's Newham Council emailed the personal data of more than 203 alleged gang members listed on Metropolitan Police Service's (MPS) Gangs Matrix database to 44 recipients, in redacted and unredacted form. 

Data included dates of birth and home addresses with the third parties, as well as information on the supposed gang members' association, firearm, or knife carrying status. 

The leak prompted concerns that young people, especially those from minority backgrounds, would be put at risk by facing increased scrutiny and profiling by law enforcement. 

It would also potentially could expose these youth to retaliatory violence from rival gangs or exploitation by criminal groups, exploitation by organised crime groups, social stigma and reduced opportunities.

The data breach was also seen to damage relationships between law enforcement and communities, particularly in areas already affected by gang activity.

The leak triggered an investigation by the UK's data privacy watchdog and a lawsuit brought by an alleged gang member.

➕ September 2017. 14-year-old Corey Junior Davis, known as CJ, was shot dead in Forest Gate. Davis had been added to the Gangs Matrix.

➕ December 2018. A 28-year-old whose data had been leaked sued the Metropolitan Police.

➕ April 2019. The UK Information Commissioner's Office fined Newham Council GBP 145,000 for sharing the Gangs Matrix database in an "unnecessary, unfair and excessive" manner, and for not disclosing the breach to the regulator or general public.