A massive data breach involving the Ministry of Defense, targeting service personnel

ministry-of-defence_6545879

Important Takeaways:

  • MPs will be told of a massive data breach involving the Ministry of Defense later today, targeting service personnel.
  • The government will not name the country involved, but Sky News understands this to be China.
  • The Chinese state is to be accused of two or three attempts at hacking MoD employees – including personnel.
  • The cyberattack was on a payroll system with current service personnel and some veterans. It is largely names and bank details that have been exposed.
  • All salaries will be paid this month.
  • China’s foreign ministry said it “firmly opposes and fights all forms of cyber attacks” and “rejects the use of this issue politically to smear other countries”.
  • Tobias Ellwood, a Conservative MP and former soldier, told Sky News that China “was probably looking at the financially vulnerable with a view that they may be coerced in exchange for cash”.
  • Defense Secretary Grant Shapps will make a statement to the Commons today, with the BBC reporting he will set out a “multi-point plan” which will include action to protect affected service men and women.

Read the original article by clicking here.