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Private Data, Including Criminal Records, Stolen in Legal Aid Hack. A cyber-attack on the Legal Aid Agency’s online system has led to the theft of sensitive private data, including criminal records. The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) confirmed the breach, which was first discovered on April 23, impacting data from as far back as 2010. The breach was initially thought to be limited but has since been described as "more extensive" than first realized. The Legal Aid Agency’s CEO, Jane Harbottle, issued an apology, acknowledging the shock and distress caused by the breach. The hacking group behind the attack claimed to have accessed 2.1 million pieces of private data, although the MoJ has not verified this figure. The stolen data could include contact information, criminal history, dates of birth, national ID numbers, and financial details, including debts and payments. The Ministry of Justice has urged anyone who applied for legal aid since 2010 to safeguard their information and be vigilant for suspicious activities. The public is advised to be cautious of unknown phone calls or messages and to independently verify the identity of anyone requesting personal information. The MoJ is working with the National Crime Agency and the National Cyber Security Centre, and has informed the Information Commissioner about the breach. The attack adds to a growing list of cyber-attacks on organizations, including Harrods, Marks & Spencer, and the Co-op, all of which have experienced significant disruptions.
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