The District Prosecutor's Office in Tarnów has launched an investigation into the unauthorized processing of personal data belonging to prosecutor Ewa Wrzosek. This inquiry follows the revelation of sensitive information related to Wrzosek, including a photograph of her old passport questionnaire, which was disclosed by journalist Dorota Kania on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter).
According to prosecutor Mieczysław Sienicki, the document containing Wrzosek's personal details was obtained from the Archive of the Institute of National Remembrance (IPN). While the procedure for acquiring the questionnaire was deemed legal, the manner in which it was utilized raises significant concerns. Sienicki emphasized, "The investigation is being conducted regarding the inadmissible and unauthorized processing of personal data." This investigation is anchored in Article 107, section 1 of the Act on the Protection of Personal Data, which stipulates that processing personal data without proper authorization can result in fines, restrictions of liberty, or imprisonment for up to two years.
The case also involves other users of the platform X who shared data from the same passport questionnaire, which includes detailed personal information such as Wrzosek's photograph, residential addresses, parents' names, and her PESEL number (the Polish equivalent of a social security number).
In a parallel development, the Tarnów prosecutor's office has refused to initiate proceedings regarding threats made against Wrzosek by Jacek Ozdoba, a Member of the European Parliament from the ruling Law and Justice party (PiS). Prosecutor Mikołaj Grzesik’s decision on this matter is not final and can be appealed. Wrzosek has already filed a complaint against the refusal to pursue the threats, arguing that the decision was made in violation of criminal procedure laws and without any evidentiary proceedings.
Wrzosek expressed her discontent with the prosecutor's office's decision, stating, "The decision of the District Prosecutor's Office in Tarnów was issued in violation of the provisions of the Code of Criminal Procedure, without conducting any evidentiary proceedings, and as such cannot stand." She hopes that the court will agree with her arguments and overturn the decision, allowing for a thorough investigation into the threats she has received.
These legal issues have arisen in the wake of the sudden death of Barbara Skrzypek, a long-time associate of PiS leader Jarosław Kaczyński. Skrzypek passed away on March 15, 2025, just three days after being questioned as a witness in a case involving the PiS-related company Srebrna and its unrealized investment plans for two skyscrapers in Warsaw.
Following Skrzypek's death, PiS politicians, including Kaczyński, have suggested a link between her passing and the stress associated with her interrogation. They also criticized Wrzosek for not allowing her legal representative to be present during the questioning.
In response to the threats and the intense scrutiny she has faced, Wrzosek has been placed under police protection. On March 18, 2025, she formally requested this protection due to the numerous threats and incitements to violence directed at her. Wrzosek described the situation as part of an "unimaginable campaign of hate and animosity" fueled by public figures and politicians.
The ongoing investigation into the unauthorized processing of Wrzosek's personal data highlights significant concerns regarding privacy and the handling of sensitive information within the political landscape of Poland. The implications of this case extend beyond Wrzosek, as it raises broader questions about the responsibilities of public figures and the media in protecting individuals' rights to privacy.
As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the legal system will address the unauthorized sharing of personal data and the threats made against Wrzosek. The outcomes could set important precedents for both privacy rights and the treatment of public officials in Poland.
In the meantime, Wrzosek's case has garnered significant media attention, with many observers closely monitoring the developments. The intersection of legal proceedings, political dynamics, and personal safety continues to create a complex and often contentious environment for those involved.
