Taking control of computer hardware is not unlawful, but taking the data contained on them creates a liability against bailiffs because the information on them can be used to reset passwords by email and raid the victim's bank accounts.

This includes taking control of a vehicle containing a laptop or other digital hardware having access to online banking stored them.

You have no protection from the police because bailiff crime is a civil matter, but in any case, you must report the theft of data to the police on the non-emergency 101 number for insurance purposes.

This applies to any hardware including video game consoles because they store passwords to make online purchases, as do mobile phones, smart TV's and tablets.

If the data on the hardware is destroyed by the bailiff, the bailiff is liable for damages under Paragraph 35 of Schedule 12 of the Tribunals Courts and Enforcement Act 2007.

If the data is important and must not be in the hands of unauthorised people, then you may apply for an emergency injunction to recover the hardware containing the specified data and bank account details.

If your bank accounts are raided after bailiffs took a laptop or other equipment containing login details, you must tell the police straight away notify your bank of unauthorised transactions.

You can claim your losses from your raided bank accounts by bringing an action against the bailiff company and the creditor.

If the computer hardware has an re-sale value under £1350 and is used in your trade, business or study, then is is exempt goods. Make a claim to exempt goods.

If you are unsuccessful in recovering the data, you will need expert legal help in quantifying the replacement cost of the data and losses from money drawn out of bank accounts stored on the device