Significant Amount of Private Data Stolen in UK Legal Aid Hack
A shocking breach of security has left thousands of individuals vulnerable after a "significant amount" of private data, including details of domestic abuse victims, was stolen from the UK's Legal Aid online system. The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) revealed that the agency's services were hacked in April, with data dating back to 2010 being downloaded, and it is estimated that over two million pieces of information were taken.
The breach covers all areas of the aid system, including domestic abuse victims, those in family cases, and others facing criminal prosecution. The stolen data may have included sensitive information such as addresses of applicants, dates of birth, national ID numbers, criminal history, employment and financial data such as debts and payments.
Apology from Legal Aid Chief Executive
Jane Harbottle, the CEO of the Legal Aid Agency, has apologized for the breach, acknowledging that it will be "shocking and upsetting" for those affected. Her statement comes as the agency's online digital services, which are used by legal aid providers to log their work and get paid by the government, have been taken offline.
Government Response
Justice Minister Sarah Sackman has assured the public that there is no indication yet that any other government systems have been affected by the breach. However, she warned that individuals should be vigilant for suspicious activity, including unknown messages or phone calls, and to update any potentially exposed passwords.
"If you are in doubt about anyone you are communicating with online or over the phone, you should verify their identity independently before providing any information to them," the MoJ said. The agency is working closely with the National Crime Agency and the National Cyber Security Centre to investigate the breach and prevent further incidents.
Impact on Legal Aid Services
The breach has significant implications for those who rely on legal aid services, including domestic abuse victims, family law cases, and individuals facing criminal prosecution. The Law Society, which represents the legal profession, has called for immediate action to be taken by the MoJ to notify all affected individuals individually.
"It is extremely concerning that members of the public have had their personal data compromised," said the Law Society. "The agency is the latest victim in a series of recent cyber-attacks that have caused mass disruption. We urge the MoJ to take this incident seriously and take swift action to protect those affected."
Recent Cyber Attacks
The breach is not an isolated incident, as several major organizations have been targeted by cyber attacks in recent weeks. Earlier this month, luxury department store Harrods restricted internet access at its sites following an attempt to gain access to its systems.
An attack on Marks & Spencer in April caused it to lose out on millions of pounds of sales and left the company struggling to get services back to normal. A similar incident at the Co-op forced it to shut down parts of its IT systems and disrupt deliveries of fresh stock.