**Header: Fujitsu Apologizes for IT Scandal Amid Allegations of Unauthorized Access**
Fujitsu, the Japanese multinational company known for its software and technology services, has issued an apology in response to the unfolding IT scandal within the UK Post Office. The company is currently facing allegations that its IT staff had unauthorized access to manipulate databases, raising serious privacy concerns among the British public.
**Investigations Reveal Privileged Access to User Information**
Investigations into the Post Office IT scandal have uncovered that the Fujitsu Software Support Centre (SSC) had privileged access to servers storing user information from August 2002 until 2023. The lack of IT service audits during this period allowed the access to persist, resulting in potential financial fraud, data errors leading to service disruptions, and violations of data protection regulations. This issue has gained significant attention and discussion across the UK.
**Fujitsu Acknowledges Unrestricted Access but Denies Wrongdoing**
John Simpkins, a spokesperson for SSC, admitted that Fujitsu had unrestricted access to the systems as part of a technology contract. However, he refuted claims that the staff committed financial fraud, manipulated transactions, or engaged in data theft for illicit purposes. The company maintains its innocence regarding these allegations.
**MPs to Question Fujitsu Chief on Possible Prosecution**
The Business and Trade Committee’s selected MPs are scheduled to question Paul Patterson, Chief of Fujitsu European Division, on Thursday. The aim of the questioning is to determine whether Post Office branch managers could face prosecution for alleged data theft and manipulation of account software. The outcome of this inquiry will shed light on the legal consequences for those involved.
**Background: Fujitsu’s Long-standing Relationship with the UK Post Office**
Fujitsu has been providing digitalization and IT services to Post Offices across the UK since 1996, securing a Horizon contract from the government in 1999. Prior to Fujitsu’s involvement, the British company ICL was responsible for delivering similar services to the government organization. This background information helps to contextualize the current scandal and its potential impact.
**Summary: Fujitsu Faces Backlash Over Unauthorized Access Allegations**
Fujitsu, a prominent Japanese software and technology services provider, has issued an apology in response to allegations of unauthorized access by its IT staff within the UK Post Office. Investigations have revealed a lack of IT service audits, allowing privileged access to persist for an extended period. While Fujitsu acknowledges having unrestricted access, the company denies any involvement in financial fraud or data theft. The Business and Trade Committee’s MPs will question Fujitsu’s Chief to determine the possibility of prosecution for Post Office branch managers. This unfolding situation has garnered significant attention across the UK, with updates expected soon.