Security breach targets data of 9 million travelers in the UK

The BBC has revealed that three major UK airports were targeted by a cyberattack that allowed hackers to access data belonging to approximately 8.7 million people, most of whom were travelers who used the airports’ Wi-Fi networks or car rental and lounge booking services.

The Manchester Airports Group (MAG), which operates Manchester, East Midlands, and London Stansted airports, stated that the breach compromised contact details, vehicle registration numbers, postcodes, and email addresses.

According to the BBC, the hackers demanded a ransom in exchange for returning the data. MAG refused to pay, without disclosing the amount demanded, and confirmed that the breach did not affect flight safety or travelers’ bank card details.

MAG said it discovered the incident on Tuesday and contained the threat urgently in collaboration with specialized consultants, while notifying the relevant authorities. It confirmed that the identities of those involved are known.

The company also sent messages to affected individuals, urging them to be cautious of suspicious emails or calls. Meanwhile, the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) is assessing the report submitted by MAG to examine the implications of the incident.

In comments to the BBC, some affected travelers expressed clear concern over the leak of their personal data and fears of its misuse, calling for assurances and more detailed explanations regarding how they would be compensated for this security breach.