In August 2023, a defence official's error exposed sensitive data, prompting urgent action from the government. Defence Secretary John Healey confirmed the breach and called it a "serious departmental error." The confidential Afghan Response Route aims to help vulnerable Afghan individuals and families escape the Taliban's reach while facing significant costs, which could total up to £450m. A recent High Court ruling lifted a superinjunction that kept this information from the public, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in government actions.
**UK Creates Secret Scheme for Afghan Refugees After Major Data Breach**

**UK Creates Secret Scheme for Afghan Refugees After Major Data Breach**
A covert relocation initiative was launched by the UK government following a significant leak of Afghan applicants' personal data.
The UK government formed an undercover Afghan relocation program after a data breach put thousands at risk. Nearly 19,000 applicants' details were accidentally leaked in February 2022, with the Ministry of Defence learning of the breach a year later. The program, which started in April 2024, has successfully brought 4,500 Afghans to safety, with more expected to follow.