Telecommunications provider Eastlink has issued a caution to its customers regarding a potential data breach, assuring them that sensitive financial information such as credit card or banking details were not compromised.
The company, which offers services in seven provinces and Bermuda, initially communicated about the incident via email to some affected customers just before 5 p.m. AT on Friday and is in the process of informing all impacted individuals.
According to Eastlink, the breach occurred between late Wednesday and early Thursday, potentially exposing customer names, contact information, account numbers, and PINs. The breach impacts approximately 75,000 accounts encompassing internet, television, and landline services.
One customer, Caitlyn Horne from Halifax, who terminated her internet service with Eastlink in 2023, confirmed receiving the breach notification. Horne expressed her concerns about the extent of information that may have been accessed, especially for individuals with prior accounts.
Horne emphasized the importance of transparency from the company and suggested offering credit monitoring services to affected customers. She shared her initial reaction upon receiving the email, reflecting common sentiments of unease due to the frequency of data breaches.
In response to the incident, Eastlink promptly shut down the affected platforms on its website and mobile app upon discovery on Wednesday. The company’s spokesperson, Jill Laing, conveyed apologies and reassurance, stating that various communication channels, including email updates, letters, and web announcements, will be utilized to ensure affected customers receive timely information.
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