The British Dental Association (BDA) has confirmed its servers were illegally hacked this week – warning members to be extra vigilant.
The organisation concluded hackers likely secured access to users’ names, contact details, transaction histories, bank details, logs of correspondence and notes of cases.
It says the association does not store card details. But it does hold members’ account numbers and sort codes in order to collect direct debit payments.
It is advising members to act with caution, particularly with emails or phone calls from anyone claiming to be from a bank, utilities provider or even from the BDA.
Additionally, it reminds members that legitimate callers will never ask for card or bank details.
Sophisticated criminals
BDA chief executive, Martin Woodrow, said: ‘On 30 July our website went down. As we attempted to restore services, it became clear hackers had accessed our systems.
‘Owing to sophistication of these criminals we cannot, as yet, confirm the full extent of information that has been accessed.
‘We are devastated and apologise unreservedly for this breach. We have informed the Information Commissioner’s Office and we are contacting any individuals we think may be affected. Additionally, we are also working around the clock to restore and rebuild our systems.
‘We will keep members updated as the situation develops.’
As a result, the BDA is working to restore its website, telephone system and internal networks. It is asking members to direct queries to the following:
- Data protection officer: Mona Meleka – [email protected]
- Indemnity policyholders: [email protected]
- Membership: [email protected]
- Advice: [email protected]
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