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Moneygram's data breach has exposed thousands of customers to potential identity theft.
The breach involved unauthorized access to Moneygram's systems, allowing hackers to steal sensitive customer information.
Moneygram has confirmed that the breach occurred in 2016, but the company only recently disclosed the extent of the damage.
This delay has raised concerns about the company's handling of the breach and its commitment to customer security.
The compromised data includes customer names, addresses, and social security numbers, making it a prime target for identity thieves.
This type of information can be used to open new credit accounts, apply for loans, or even file fake tax returns.
The Incident
MoneyGram services were down for several days due to a cyber security incident that started as a network outage on Friday, September 20.
The first signs of a problem appeared on Friday when people reported the inability to receive payments or access their money through the service.
MoneyGram initially said they were experiencing a "network outage" impacting connectivity to their systems, but didn't share any additional details.
The company finally confirmed on Monday that a cybersecurity incident was the cause of the outage, assuring customers that they are working with external experts and law enforcement to resolve the situation.
MoneyGram services were no longer available in Post Office branches after the contract expired on October 1.
Here is a timeline of the incident:
- 24 September: Money transfer specialist MoneyGram services remain down several days after a network outage developed into a full-blown cyber security incident.
- 1 October: The Post Office offered a short extension to enable it to assess the impact of the MoneyGram cyber incident, but the contract has now expired and MoneyGram services are no longer available in Post Office branches.
- 2 October: Money transfer fintech wrote to subpostmasters expressing its disappointment with the Post Office over end of contract.
This Isn't Just a Problem
This isn't just a problem. MoneyGram's cyber attack and ongoing outage have affected its partners around the world.
The Bank of Jamaica has reported that remittance companies offering MoneyGram services in Jamaica are unable to access the MoneyGram platform. This means people in Jamaica can't send remittances abroad or receive them from abroad.
The UK Post Office, which offers MoneyGram services, is also affected and has disabled its online and in-branch services. This includes online support, so customers can't use MoneyGram services online or in-person for now.
MoneyGram hasn't given a timeline for when its services will be back online. They're making progress, but it's unclear when normal business operations will resume.
Humans Remain the Weak Link
The MoneyGram data breach was a wake-up call for many, highlighting the vulnerability of our personal information.
In 2016, hackers stole sensitive data from MoneyGram, including social security numbers and bank account information.
This breach was a result of an attack on the company's third-party vendor, highlighting the risks of outsourcing sensitive data.
The breach exposed over 9,000 customers to potential identity theft and financial loss.
It's essential to be cautious when sharing personal information, even with reputable companies like MoneyGram.
MoneyGram has since taken steps to improve its security measures, but the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of human vigilance.
The breach was a stark reminder that our personal information is only as secure as the weakest link in the chain.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to do if my information was breached?
Report the data breach to local law enforcement or a national consumer protection agency for guidance and potential assistance. They can help you navigate the situation and any necessary investigations.
Sources
- https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366613195/MoneyGram-customer-data-breached-in-attack
- https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/moneygram-confirms-a-cyberattack-is-behind-dayslong-outage/
- https://www.csoonline.com/article/3552903/moneygram-confirms-breach-involving-ssns-and-other-customer-data.html
- https://em360tech.com/tech-article/moneygram-cyber-attack-it-outage
- https://www.bankinfosecurity.com/moneygram-money-transfer-firm-reports-customer-data-breach-a-26476
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