We have previously raised concerns about the reliability of the TV Licensing website, but it appears we should be seriously concerned about the security of the site as well.
IT blogger Mark Cook recently highlighted the fact that several data entry pages of the TV Licensing website are unsecure, meaning unencrypted personal data could be intercepted by an unauthorised third party. Names, addresses and bank details are all vulnerable.
Mark tweeted his concerns to TV Licensing, which replied: "Hi Mark, Our website is secure and our website’s security certificates are up to date, so rest assured, personal details are safe."
Further examination of the website confirms that it is indeed insecure, despite the denials in that tweet.
This is not the first time security concerns have been raised about the TV Licensing website, but given the story's recent momentum it appears that remedial action is finally being taken. The website is currently offline for maintenance.
The image below shows that concerns about the security of the website were being raised (and dismissed by TV Licensing) as early as February 2018, but we seem to recall problems even prior to that.
The website is the responsibility of hapless BBC contractor Capita Business Services Ltd, which currently holds the lucrative TV Licensing operations contract. Capita is contractually obliged to "ensure that the TVL websites is (sic) available at all times" and "ensure appropriate service ability and service to the customer".
TV Licensing has previously attracted criticism for breaches of data protection legislation. In the past TV Licensing has lost or compromised the personal data of thousands of customers.
It would appear, yet again, that Capita has failed in its contractual obligations. Curious then that the BBC keeps on endorsing Capita's shoddy work and extending its contract.
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