A recent data breach has impacted AT&T customers, including those using MVNOs like Boost, Cricket, and Straight Talk. The breach involved customer data stored with a third-party cloud platform called Snowflake. This incident follows a previous breach in April that affected 71 million subscribers. Here’s what you need to know:
– The hackers stole records of customer calls and texts from April 14 to April 25 of this year.
– The stolen data includes information generated by calls and texts made between May 1 and October 31, 2022, such as phone numbers and call durations.
– Additionally, cell site identification numbers from January 2, 2023, were also taken.
Although AT&T claims the stolen data is no longer publicly available due to paying a hacker to delete the files, experts warn about potential risks. The inclusion of cell site identification numbers could allow for the triangulation of users’ locations, posing privacy concerns and increasing the risk of targeted attacks.
According to Javvad Malik from KnowBe4, the stolen metadata could still be used for malicious purposes like phishing attacks and identity theft. If you’re an AT&T customer or use one of the affected MVNOs, it’s essential to remain vigilant:
– Be cautious when sharing personal information in response to emails or calls.
– Stay informed about potential scams related to this data breach.
– Monitor your accounts for any suspicious activity.
Your security and privacy are our top priorities at Phones Canada. We will continue to update you on any developments related to this incident. Stay safe online!
