Aflac Detects Cyberattack, Warns of Potential Data Exposure
Insurance giant Aflac has announced the detection of suspicious activity on its U.S. network, identifying it as part of a wider cybercrime campaign targeting the insurance sector. The company cautioned that the incident may have exposed sensitive personal information, including Social Security numbers and other vital data belonging to customers, beneficiaries, employees, and agents.
According to Aflac, the intrusion was swiftly identified and contained within hours of its discovery on Friday. Despite the security incident, the company confirmed that its operational systems remain functional, allowing them to continue serving customers, underwrite policies, review claims, and conduct business as usual.
The investigation into the full scope of the breach is currently in its early stages. Aflac stated that it is not yet able to determine the total number of individuals potentially affected. Files potentially impacted by the breach are understood to contain a range of information, including claims details, health records, Social Security numbers, and other personal identifiers related to individuals within its U.S. business operations.
Aflac Offers Free Protection to Potentially Affected Individuals
In response to the potential data compromise, the Columbus, Georgia-based insurer is taking steps to support those who may be impacted. Aflac is offering 24 months of complimentary credit monitoring, identity theft protection, and Medical Shield services to anyone who contacts their dedicated call center. This measure aims to help safeguard individuals against potential misuse of their exposed information.
Cyberattacks on the Rise Across Industries
Aflac’s announcement underscores the persistent and growing threat of cyberattacks impacting businesses across various sectors. The insurance industry, handling vast amounts of sensitive personal and financial data, is an attractive target for cybercriminals.
This incident is one of several high-profile breaches reported in recent months that highlight the vulnerability of corporate networks and the potential consequences for customers and operations. For instance:
Wholesale distributor United Natural Foods (UNFI) experienced a breach that disrupted its ability to fulfill orders, leading to item shortages for grocers it supplies, including Whole Foods.
In the U.K., retailers like Marks & Spencer and grocery chain Co-op faced cyberattacks that affected online services and in-store stock availability for extended periods.
Victoria’s Secret recently detected a security incident that forced the shutdown of its U.S. online shopping site for nearly four days and impacted corporate systems, delaying financial reporting.
The North Face reported a “small-scale credential stuffing attack” affecting about 1,500 consumers, though credit card data was not compromised.
- Adidas disclosed that an unauthorized party obtained customer contact information via a third-party service provider.
- apnews.com
These varied incidents demonstrate that no industry is immune and emphasize the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures and swift, transparent responses when breaches occur. Aflac’s ongoing investigation will determine the precise extent of the impact and guide further actions to protect affected individuals.
