LONDON — A cyberattack targeting three major UK airports has affected around 8.7 million customers. Hackers reportedly demanded a ransom for the stolen information.
Manchester, Stansted and East Midlands airports were affected by the incident. The airports are operated by Manchester Airports Group.
British media reports said several types of customer information were compromised. The data reportedly included email addresses, phone numbers and postcodes.
Vehicle registration numbers were also among the affected information. Details linked to airport services were reportedly exposed as well.
These services included car parking, airport lounges and fast-track bookings. Information connected to airport Wi-Fi registrations was also affected.
Manchester Airports Group confirmed that hackers accessed customer contact details. Vehicle registration numbers and postcodes were also obtained during the incident.
The company said the attackers demanded a ransom after accessing the information. However, Manchester Airports Group refused to make the payment.
The company did not reveal the amount demanded by the hackers. It also stressed that passenger safety was not affected.
Aviation security also remained unaffected during the incident. The company said the compromised system did not contain banking or payment details.
8.7 Million Customers Affected
Manchester Airports Group said around 8.7 million customers were affected by the cyberattack. Email addresses accounted for most of the compromised information.
Much of the affected data was linked to Wi-Fi registrations at airport terminals. The company said the incident was detected on Tuesday.
After discovering the attack, the group immediately blocked further access. It also informed customers whose information was affected.
The company said the threat had been contained. Specialists are assisting with efforts to secure its systems and protect customer information.
Relevant authorities have also been informed about the incident. The group said it continues to take necessary steps following the breach.
Airport Services Remain Operational
The cyberattack did not affect passenger safety or aviation security, according to the company. There was also no reported compromise of customer payment information.
Manchester Airports Group said it takes the protection of customer data seriously. It also apologised for the concern and inconvenience caused by the incident.
The company is working with cybersecurity specialists to strengthen its systems. Further measures are expected as investigations into the incident continue.
The attack has raised concerns about the security of personal information held by major transport operators. Customers are also being advised to remain alert to suspicious communications.
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The cyberattack highlights the potential risks faced by organisations managing large amounts of customer data. Authorities and the affected airports are continuing to assess the situation.
