Canada’s second-largest airline, WestJet, confirmed a major data breach impacting 1.2 million passengers earlier this year. The airline revealed that sensitive passenger information was stolen in a cyberattack, raising concerns about identity and travel security.
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The disclosure came in a filing with Maine’s attorney general, which confirmed that 240 residents in the state were among those affected.
What Data Was Stolen in the WestJet Breach?
According to WestJet, the stolen information may include:
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Passenger names and dates of birth
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Postal addresses
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Travel documents such as passports and government-issued IDs
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Customer accommodations, including requests and complaints
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Rewards program information, such as points balances and account details
This extensive exposure means that affected passengers may face risks related to identity theft and travel fraud.
How WestJet Is Responding
WestJet said it is investigating the breach and has taken steps to enhance its cybersecurity measures. The airline also notified affected passengers and is offering guidance on how to protect personal information.
What Passengers Should Do Next
Passengers affected by the WestJet data breach are advised to:
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Monitor financial statements for unusual activity
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Change passwords for WestJet accounts and related services
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Watch for suspicious emails or phishing attempts
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Consider placing a fraud alert with credit bureaus
Taking these steps can help reduce the risk of identity theft or misuse of travel information.
Why This Matters
With cyberattacks on airlines increasing globally, the WestJet data breach highlights the importance of strong digital security. Customers are reminded to stay vigilant and act quickly when personal data is compromised.
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