Sometimes, you have no choice about which internet-based services you use, such as those that an organisation may use to perform DBS checks. You have little choice but to trust those service providers.
There has been a personal data breach involving Access Personal Checking Services Ltd. (APCS), a UK based company that facilitates Disclosure and Barring Services (DBS) checks. The breach is a result of a cyber-attack.
The information reportedly includes individuals’ basic personal information, contact details and identity information, such as passport, driving license, and national insurance details.
Guernsey’s Office of the Data Protection Authority (ODPA) has been contacted by a number of Bailiwick residents who have been affected by this breach and, as a result, are engaging with APCS. After contacting APCS they have now submitted a formal breach notification to our office.
The ODPA highlights the following advice to guard against identity theft and other harms from compromise of your personal information:
- Practice vigilance. Examine monthly credit and bank statements. Are there new unknown or suspicious charges?
- Be on guard for red flags. Is there a sudden increase in credit inquiries or alerts? An interruption of automated payments to any of your accounts? These could be indicators of compromise of your identity and personal information.
- Protect your passwords. You may want to consider changing your passwords. Use different passwords for different websites, accounts and devices. Two-factor authentication is best. And regularly update security settings
If you have friends or family members who are less tech-literate, share this guidance with them and help them to understand the warning signs.
