Free Mobile Confirms Targeted Cyberattack on Management Tool
Free Mobile has been hit by a cyberattack that exposed subscribers' personal data. The company confirms that passwords are secure and urges vigilance against potential fraud attempts.
Targeted Cyberattack Hits Free Mobile
Free, a major telecommunications provider, has recently fallen victim to a targeted cyberattack. The breach unfortunately allowed unauthorized access to certain personal data of its mobile service subscribers. Some reports claim a hacker holds data from nearly 20 million customer accounts and 5.11 million Free Mobile and Freebox subscriber IBAN details, though this has not been confirmed by the iliad group.
Personal Data Exposed, Passwords Remain Safe
According to an official communication sent to customers via email by the French company, the attack targeted a management tool, unintentionally exposing subscriber account information. This included names, email and postal addresses, birth dates and places, phone numbers, subscriber IDs, and contract details. Notably, the company assures that “None of your passwords have been affected”.
Immediate Measures to Halt Attack and Boost Security
In its statement, Free mentioned that all necessary actions were initiated immediately upon discovering the incident to end the attack and enhance the security of its information systems. Both the National Commission on Informatics and Liberty (CNIL) and the National Agency for the Security of Information Systems (ANSSI) have been notified. A criminal complaint has also been filed.
Call for Vigilance and Support Resources
The operator urges all its subscribers to remain vigilant against the risk of fraudulent emails, SMS, or calls, emphasizing that its advisors will never ask for passwords by phone. In cases of doubt or suspicious activities, victims are encouraged to contact the official digital victim assistance service at www.cybermalveillance.gouv.fr. Free concludes its message by expressing regret for the unfortunate incident and reaffirms its commitment to protecting user information. A toll-free number has also been set up at 0 805 921 100 for any inquiries.