News of airline data breaches are, unfortunately, becoming alarmingly routine. After Qantas, Hawaiian Airlines, WestJet, Air France-KLM and Aeroflot were hit earlier this year, Iberia has now joined the growing list of carriers targeted by cyberattacks.
The Spanish flag carrier notified customers over the weekend that a system operated by one of its technology contractors had been compromised. The attackers claim to have stolen up to 77GB of data, according to reports.
As Spain’s flag carrier and a member of the International Airlines Group (IAG), Iberia said the exposed information may include full names, email addresses and Iberia Plus membership numbers. The airline, however, noted that there is no evidence of unauthorised access to user accounts, passwords or financial details.
Iberia added that there is currently no indication the stolen data has been misused, but urged customers to remain alert for suspicious emails or messages and to contact the airline if they notice anything unusual.
Security analysts say the industry has become an attractive target due to inconsistent cyber defences and the sheer volume of customer data airlines hold. Experts also warn that cyberattackers are likely to continue target airlines.
Related: Why hackers are targeting airlines