The Metropolitan Police is on high alert following a significant security breach that led to officers’ and staff’s details being hacked.
All 47,000 personnel have been notified about the potential exposure of their photographs, names, and ranks, The Sun newspaper reported.
The breach occurred when cybercriminals managed to infiltrate the IT systems of a contractor responsible for printing warrant cards and staff passes.
In response to the report, a spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police told Sky News: “We have been made aware of unauthorised access to the IT system of a Met supplier.
“We are working with the company to understand if there has been any security breach relating to Metropolitan Police data.”
The company had access to names, ranks, photos, vetting levels and pay numbers for officers and staff, the Met said.
It added that the company “did not hold personal information such as addresses, phone numbers or financial details”.
“Security measures have been taken by the MPS as a result of this report. The MPS has reported the matter to the National Crime Agency. The Information Commissioner’s Office is also aware,” the Met added.
The Sun also reported that the National Crime Agency had been called in amid fears terrorists or organised gangs could use the stolen data.
Met Police Service bosses also sent a message to their staff, urging them to “remain vigilant”.