The Data Protection Commissioner is 'assessing' an apparent GDPR breach in Dublin City Council, Dublin Live can reveal.
And "anyone that has contacted the Council is compromised," a Councillor told Dublin Live.
Dublin City Council told Dublin Live on Friday they launched their own investigation into the apparent GDPR breach after "family photos" and other materials appeared on devices issued by the local authority.
The issue was raised by former Lord Mayor Micheal Mac Donncha at last Thursday's Protocol Committee meeting.
A source at the meeting said Cllr Mac Donncha's iPad suddenly displayed "family photos" he didn't recognise.
The apparent breach is not limited to the "family photos", with one source saying there were also pictures of what appeared to be political activists working.
Officials from the Chief Executive's office called Councillors after the meeting to inquire about the issue and recalled some Councillor's iPads, sources confirmed.
The problem is understood to be linked to older devices and not the newer models.
A number of councillors raised concerns about the security of confidential constituent information and whether the problem has spread to Council staff equipment as well.
Independent Councillor Mannix Flynn was "deeply, deeply shocked" the Council's communications equipment is "not safe or secure".
He said: "It is just beggars belief that an organisation as relevant and as powerful and as centre stage as Dublin City Council - bearing in mind the kind of information that is floating around - hasn't got its IT secure.
"This is not the first time this has actually happened. I'll be taking precautions in relation to Dublin City Council's communication equipment."
He added: "It is beggar's belief that private photographs of individuals - no matter who they are - family photographs and indeed many people in activities could end up on the iPads of other councillors for no reason whatsoever.
"This was only copped on by Dublin City Council when Councillors brought it to their attention."
Cllr Flynn called on DCC Chief Executive Owen Keegan to make a statement on the matter.
A Dublin City Council spokeswoman did not answer Dublin Live queries on Friday about the extent of the potential breach but did confirm the relevant regulatory body has been informed.
They said: "An investigation is being carried out and we have informed the relevant regulatory body.
"It would not be appropriate to make any further comment until the investigation is completed."
The DPC can fine public bodies up to €1 million, and hit Limerick City and County Council with a €110,000 reprimand for their use of CCTV cameras last year.
To get the latest breaking news straight to your inbox, sign up for our free newsletter.
