Massive Data Breach at NTT DATA Americas Exposes Standard Insurance Customers’ Personal Details

In a recent incident, the personal details of Standard Insurance customers were exposed in a data breach. The breach occurred on servers belonging to PBI Research Services, a company processing data for Standard Insurance, and was being hosted by NTT DATA Americas. This breach has impacted over 300,000 individuals, highlighting the urgent need for stronger cybersecurity measures.

Impact and exposure

The attacker gained unauthorized access to Standard Insurance data through the MOVEit Transfer service used by PBI Research Services. NTT DATA Americas, the subsidiary of the Japanese multinational IT company NTT DATA, has informed affected individuals about the breach. According to information disclosed to the Maine Attorney General, approximately 308,072 people had their personal details compromised in this attack.

Risks of Social Security Number (SSN) exposure

The compromised personal details include names and Social Security numbers (SSNs). The exposure of SSNs poses significant risks as the stolen data can be used by impersonators for identity theft. Combined with names and driver’s license numbers, stolen SSNs provide the necessary ammunition for criminals to commit various forms of fraud, including financial and medical identity theft. This breach underscores the critical importance of protecting such sensitive information.

Role of PBI Research Services

PBI Research Services, a US-based population management solutions provider, was exposed to this attack due to the utilization of the MOVEit Transfer service. This platform served as the entry point for the malicious actors to gain unauthorized access to the data processed for Standard Insurance. The incident emphasizes the need for organizations to conduct thorough risk assessments and ensure the security of third-party services they rely on.

NTT DATA Americas: A Major IT Player

NTT DATA Americas, a subsidiary of the Japanese multinational IT company NTT DATA, plays a crucial role in the incident. With over 139,000 employees and revenues exceeding $30 billion, NTT DATA is a major player in the global technology industry. However, this breach raises concerns about the company’s security protocols and highlights the importance of implementing robust cybersecurity measures.

Scope of MOVEit Transfer attacks

The MOVEit Transfer attacks have caused widespread damage. Over 980 organizations and nearly 60 million individuals have been confirmed to be impacted by these attacks. The ransomware gang Cl0p has claimed responsibility for these breaches, targeting various sectors and industries. This extensive scale of the attacks reveals the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity practices and vigilance in the face of evolving threats.

Other affected organizations

Standard Insurance is not the only organization affected by the MOVEit Transfer attacks. Numerous well-known companies, including TD Ameritrade and American Airlines, have had their clients’ personal data exposed in this breach. The significant list of targeted entities also includes TJX, TomTom, Pioneer Electronics, and AMC Theatres. These incidents highlight the importance of organizations, irrespective of their size or industry, prioritizing cybersecurity as a foundational element of their operations.

The massive data breach at NTT DATA Americas, impacting Standard Insurance customers, serves as a wake-up call for organizations around the world. The exposure of personal details, including Social Security numbers, underscores the severe risks posed by such incidents. It is crucial for businesses to invest in robust cybersecurity measures, conduct regular risk assessments, and ensure the security of their third-party service providers. This incident highlights the need for heightened vigilance and comprehensive security protocols to protect sensitive personal information from falling into the wrong hands.

Explore more

D365 Supply Chain Tackles Key Operational Challenges

Imagine a mid-sized manufacturer struggling to keep up with fluctuating demand, facing constant stockouts, and losing customer trust due to delayed deliveries, a scenario all too common in today’s volatile supply chain environment. Rising costs, fragmented data, and unexpected disruptions threaten operational stability, making it essential for businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMBs) and manufacturers, to find ways to

Cloud ERP vs. On-Premise ERP: A Comparative Analysis

Imagine a business at a critical juncture, where every decision about technology could make or break its ability to compete in a fast-paced market, and for many organizations, selecting the right Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system becomes that pivotal choice—a decision that impacts efficiency, scalability, and profitability. This comparison delves into two primary deployment models for ERP systems: Cloud ERP

Selecting the Best Shipping Solution for D365SCM Users

Imagine a bustling warehouse where every minute counts, and a single shipping delay ripples through the entire supply chain, frustrating customers and costing thousands in lost revenue. For businesses using Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management (D365SCM), this scenario is all too real when the wrong shipping solution disrupts operations. Choosing the right tool to integrate with this powerful platform

How Is AI Reshaping the Future of Content Marketing?

Dive into the future of content marketing with Aisha Amaira, a MarTech expert whose passion for blending technology with marketing has made her a go-to voice in the industry. With deep expertise in CRM marketing technology and customer data platforms, Aisha has a unique perspective on how businesses can harness innovation to uncover critical customer insights. In this interview, we

Why Are Older Job Seekers Facing Record Ageism Complaints?

In an era where workforce diversity is often championed as a cornerstone of innovation, a troubling trend has emerged that threatens to undermine these ideals, particularly for those over 50 seeking employment. Recent data reveals a staggering surge in complaints about ageism, painting a stark picture of systemic bias in hiring practices across the U.S. This issue not only affects