Cyprus investigates alleged data leak from police systems
Criminal and disciplinary investigations are ongoing in Cyprus into police officers suspected of unauthorized access to data from police computer systems and passing it on to third parties. This was reported by Cyprus Mail, citing Isotita union head Nikos Loizides.
Anonymous complaint
According to Loizides, the inquiries concern allegations of unauthorized access to information from police databases. An anonymous complainant claimed that police officers used the department's telecommunications and information systems to obtain information for criminal elements.
The anti-corruption authority discontinued its examination of the anonymous complaint because it was unable to contact the complainant to obtain additional data or clarifications. The authority noted that the described cases in themselves do not indicate a corrupt act and that specific evidence is needed to establish such an offense.
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System access records
At the same time, the anti-corruption authority stated that, if sufficient and reliable evidence is available, these actions could indicate a possible breach of official duties, improper conduct, or a serious disciplinary offense. The complainant was advised to file a named complaint with Aadipa, the body that examines complaints against the police.
Loizides explained that every police officer has two unique codes for access to computers and the police information system. Electronic systems record who accessed information, what exactly they searched for, and which documents they viewed or printed. According to him, if the complaint had named the police officers allegedly involved, their activity could have been checked using these records.
Police leadership warning
Police chief Themistos Arnaoutis, in a circular issued in December 2024, instructed heads of police units to warn staff that disclosing information about criminal and disciplinary investigations may result in criminal and disciplinary liability. The document specifically concerned accessing police databases without permission or legal grounds and subsequently passing information on to third parties.
