A large amount of data was stolen on Thursday, Aug. 27, from three of the UK’s airports after a cyberattack gained access to around 8.7 million customers’ personal information.
Hacking incident on three major UK airports
The cyberattack that occurred at Manchester Airport (MAN), London Stansted Airport (STN) and East Midlands Airport (EMA) was declared after customers’ personal information containing postcodes, phone numbers, email addresses and vehicle registration numbers was accessed by hackers. According to cybersecurity analysts, the hackers demanded a ransom fee as payment in exchange for the stolen information, which was not given.
The customer data that was exposed did not contain bank information or payment details, according to a statement made by Manchester Airports Group (MAG), as they reassured customers by affirming that,
“We immediately contained the risk and have been working with specialist advisors and taking appropriate steps to protect our customers and systems. We have informed and are working with the relevant authorities. At no point has passenger safety or aviation security been compromised.”
Customers’ email information was reportedly obtained from signing up to airport Wi-Fi, and other data was accessed through bookings of airport services.
Airport operations continue
Customers have been warned that they should stay vigilant when receiving unexpected and suspicious emails, calls or text messages. MAG has stated that,
“We will never contact you unexpectedly to ask for payment or banking information. We apologise for any inconvenience or concern this may cause.”
The situation was quickly contained according to MAG officials, and the incident did not affect airport operations, as all three sites remain fully functional without delays or missed departures.
This is not the first time that the UK’s airports have faced cybersecurity attacks. Last year, on Sept. 20, a hacking incident that targeted Heathrow Airport (LHR), Brussels Airport (BRU) and Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) led to a huge disruption as airport operations were severely delayed after the attack affected multiple airports’ electronic check-in and baggage systems.
The UK’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is set to continue to improve cybersecurity measures by increasing investments in cyberdefence, according to its CAA Cyber Security Oversight Strategy 2024-26. The CAA is also set to develop its safety management in assessing cyber risks to effectively regulate the UK’s aviation system and protect the public.
What do you think about this cyber attack? Let us know in the comments below!
