Nikon has apologised after 86 photographers were hit by a fault affecting Nikon Image Space, which locked new users out of their accounts and meant that those of 43 users could be accessed by 43 others, and vice versa.

In a statement, Nikon Japan said it is taking the problem ‘very seriously’, adding: ‘After examining the system, we found evidence that the images and membership information (name, nickname, email address, telephone number) of 32 of those users had been accessed in some way without the user’s knowledge.’

Those affected, who include a photographer based in the UK, had set up Nikon Image Space accounts between 6-11 June, according to Nikon.

Nikon says it has since put measures in place to avoid a repeat of the problem, but that 86 users remained unable to log into their accounts.