TransUnion Data Breach FAQs
Cell C has reason to believe that the TransUnion data breach may have compromised the personal information of some Cell C customers. We view this incident in a very serious light. Cell C is committed to taking the necessary steps to communicate with customers that may have been affected and give recommendations to mitigate the potential adverse effect of this incident.
TransUnion has been the target of a criminal cyber-attack, and a third party has gained unlawful access to TransUnion's server.
It is possible that the personal information of some Cell C customers has been affected by the leak.
Cell C is conducting an urgent investigation to definitively determine whether any Cell C customer information has been compromised.
We are in contact with TransUnion to establish other necessary facts; however, we believe it is important to update our customers in the meantime.
As our investigation progresses, we will contact affected customers via SMS or email to alert them.
We have also taken the following additional steps:
- We have notified the Information Regulator of this incident.
- We have instructed our attorneys to engage with law enforcement authorities regarding this incident.
Customer contact information including names, ID numbers, physical addresses, email addresses and banking account numbers may have been exposed.
Access to personal information can create opportunities for criminals to impersonate you but does not guarantee access to your banking profile or accounts.
However, criminals can use this information to trick you into disclosing confidential banking details.
Third parties could potentially use this in various ways to commit fraudulent scams, such as application fraud or the changing of banking details via an email hack.
We understand that this incident can create uncertainty, and we are committed to addressing your concerns.
If you suspect that your identity has been compromised, we recommend that you:
- Call the Cell C Customer Care Helpline on 084 135. Alternatively, send an email to media@cellc.co.za.
- Apply for protective registration through the South African Fraud Prevention Services at www.safps.org.za or 011 867 2234.
As a precaution, we encourage you to follow these security recommendations:
- Verify all requests for personal information and only respond to such requests when there is a legitimate reason to do so.
- Do not disclose personal information such as passwords and PINs when asked to do so by phone, fax, text messages or email.
- Avoid using the same password across multiple accounts, change your passwords regularly and never share passwords with anyone else.
- Perform frequent anti-virus and malware scans on your personal computer and mobile device, using software that is up to date.
- Do not click on any suspicious links.
- Monitor activity on your bank accounts and check credit reports regularly to identify any suspicious activity.
Cell C customer information privacy is a priority for Cell C, and we sincerely regret any inconvenience or concern this incident may have caused you. Cell C assures you that it continues to prioritize the protection of your personal information.
For more information on the incident, click on https://www.transunion.co.za/customer-support/faq