Renault customer details stolen in cyberattack

Renault UK has confirmed that some customer details were stolen in a cyberattack on one of its third-party data providers.

According to the French multinational car maker, malicious actors did not access customer financial information, such as bank account details, or passwords.

However, some of their data was stolen, including "customer names, addresses, dates of birth, gender, phone numbers, vehicle identification numbers and vehicle registration details”, according to a spokesperson cited by Sky News.

The firm wouldn’t specify the number of affected customers "for ongoing security reasons", but assured that it doesn’t expect serious implications for Renault UK as its own systems hadn’t been hacked.

Those affected by the breach will be notified, with victims potentially including a greater variety of people than expected, including those who had entered competitions or shared data with Renault UK, even if they hadn’t ever made a purchase.

"The third-party provider has confirmed this is an isolated incident which has been contained, and we are working with it to ensure that all appropriate actions are being taken. We have notified all relevant authorities,” a spokesperson said.

The company added that customers are advised to be on the lookout for suspicious requests related to their personal data.

"We are in the process of contacting all affected customers, advising them of the cyber-attack and reminding them to be cautious of any unsolicited requests for personal information.”

The incident is the latest in a series of attacks on major car makers. In September, Jaguar Land Rover started a "phased restart" of some of its systems after a crippling cyberattack halted its operations. The company also secured a £1.5bn UK government loan “to give certainty to its supply chain”.