WestJet Data Breach Exposes 1.2 Million Passengers’ Information
WestJet has confirmed that the personal information of about 1.2 million passengers was stolen in a cyberattack that happened in June.
Earlier this week, the Calgary-based airline warned some U.S. customers that details like names, contact information, and even travel documents may have been taken. Rewards points could also have been stolen.
At first, WestJet didn’t say how many people were affected. But in a report to the attorney general of Maine, the company admitted that 1.2 million customers were impacted, including 240 people in that state.
The hacking group suspected to be behind the attack is called Scattered Spider. The group is believed to be made up of teenagers and young adults who trick IT workers into giving them access to secure networks so they can steal money or data.
Canada’s privacy commissioner is now investigating the case. WestJet says it is contacting customers whose information was stolen and is working with police in both Canada and the U.S.
Meanwhile, the airline is also planning some upgrades for travelers. It will soon expand free Wi-Fi on more planes through Starlink and Telus, and passengers can now track their luggage using Apple AirTags.
