Cyber Scam Hits Greater Manchester Housing Services, Thousands at Risk of Data Breach

In a concerning development for residents across Greater Manchester, the software provider Locata has confirmed a cyber scam that has put thousands of individuals at risk. The attack primarily impacted local housing services, leading to significant disruptions in operations and raising alarms about the safety of personal data. Locata, which serves councils nationwide with its housing software, issued a statement apologizing for the incident and assuring the public that it is taking the matter seriously. "We moved quickly to manage the issue and, working with third-party IT experts, are investigating the matter," the firm emphasized. The company noted that it has already informed the affected local authorities and that its investigation is ongoing. Among the councils impacted, Manchester City Council reported that only the public-facing section of its website, known as Manchester Move, was affected. A spokesperson clarified that this limited breach resulted in "limited personal data" being compromised, but the specifics remain unclear. Despite this, the potential risks have prompted warnings from local authorities. Bolton Council has also acknowledged the cyber attack and is advising residents to be vigilant. A spokesperson indicated that anyone who may have received a suspicious phishing email should consult the guidance available on the UK National Cyber Security Centre's website. The urgency of this advice is underscored by the growing trend of cyber scams, where unsuspecting individuals may inadvertently compromise their personal information. Salford has faced similar challenges, with the breach reportedly occurring last week. The council has urged residents to take immediate action if they suspect they may have clicked on malicious links. Specific recommendations include monitoring bank statements for any unusual transactions and contacting their bank without delay if they have engaged with the phishing attempts. For those who have fallen victim to financial losses, the council advises reporting the incident to Action Fraud, the UK’s national fraud reporting centre. Additionally, individuals are encouraged to change passwords, especially if they have reused them across different accounts. Salford Council also recommends signing up for free credit reports to keep an eye on any unexpected changes in personal credit status. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that can arise in our increasingly digital lives. As local authorities continue to navigate the repercussions of this cyber scam, residents are urged to remain cautious and proactive in protecting their personal information against such threats. The ongoing investigation by Locata is expected to shed further light on the extent of the breach and the measures that will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.