On 16 March 2026 Companies House alerted customers to a security issue with its Web Filing service.
What was the problem?
On 13 March 2026 Companies House became aware that logged in users of its WebFiling service could potentially view certain online information relating to other companies not usually published on the public register, specifically for directors and persons with significant control, their date of birth and their residential address and the company’s registered email address. It may also have been possible for unauthorised filings (for example, accounts or changes of directors) to have been submitted on another company’s record.
As a result, Companies House closed Webfiling between 13 March and 16 March to investigate and test the system and concluded that the issue had been introduced by an update carried out back in October 2025. Companies House made it clear no passwords have been compromised, no data used in the new identity verification process (e.g. driving licences or passports) have been accessed and no existing filed documents have been altered.
Companies House has reported the issue both to the Information Commissioner’s Office and to the National Cyber Security Centre.
What should companies do?
The situation is still evolving but it is important to note that, to date, there have been no reports of any information being accessed or altered without a company’s permission. Companies House has undertaken to email all companies on the register explaining the issue and asking them to check their registered details and filing history and to report any discrepancies.
We recommend you act now to:-
- check your company’s details on the Companies House register are correct and up to date;
- report any inaccuracies to Companies House using enquiries@companieshouse.gov.uk;
- sign up for the Companies House Follow service to receive email alerts of company transactions. The alert service will inform subscribers instantly what information has been filed as soon as this has been accepted by Companies House.
Speak to an expert
If you would like any assistance reviewing your company information or how this security issue may impact your company please do get in touch.
Posted:
