UBER Data Breach Was Not Reported For 1 Year
Yesterday it was reported that the transportation company Uber has suffered a data breach, revealing personal information of some 57 million people around the world. It has been confirmed by Uber that they knew of the year-old attack and had covered it up. The company could now face legal action, as those affected may have claims for any loss suffered as a result of the misuse of their private information.
The New York state Attorney General has opened an investigation into the massive data breach and the company’s failure to secure personal information. This breach violates the UK’s Data Protection Act of 1998, and the New York state law that requires companies to notify the Attorney General and consumers if data is stolen.
Uber acknowledges paying hackers $100,000 to destroy the stolen information in this ransomware attack. Thus far, there is no evidence of malicious misuse of the stolen information. However, the cover-up will present Uber with a higher fine than if they had come forward with the information.
Britain’s Deputy Information Commissioner James Dipple-Johnstone said “If U.K. citizens were affected then we should have been notified so that we could assess and verify the impact on people whose data was exposed.”
UK officials are working with the National Cyber Security Center to verify the severity of the problem for British Uber clients and drivers.
Related Article: Equifax Data Breach 2017
Protect Your Data from Ransomware Attacks
This breach, and those like it, demonstrate the importance of your constant cyber security efforts. Securing company and customer data is critical in today’s world to help protect your trusted reputation. It is crucial that companies in all industries evaluate and maintain their networks with the latest in IT security.
CCNY Tech’s team of IT professionals understand the ins and outs of security weak points, the latest threats, and the best preventative measures. Visit our website or call us at 315.292.1046 for a Network Audit.
Related Article: Is Ransomware an Overblown Concern?