Back-up data physically lost, bank enhances security steps

KUALA LUMPUR: CIMB Group Holdings Bhd has heightened security measures, across all channels, as several magnetic tapes containing back- up data were physically lost in transit during routine operation but the bank assured that the tapes did not contain any authentication data such as passwords.

“Some of these tapes contain customer information of CIMB Bank and its subsidiaries. Following a thorough and ongoing assessment, there is currently no evidence that any of this information has been compromised,” said the bank in a statement yesterday.

The tape does not contain any authentication data such as Personal Identification Numbers ( PINs), passwords or credit card card verification value ( CCV) numbers.

In adopting a conservative approach to data protection and security, the bank was working with all relevant authorities and taking all necessary measures to protect its customers.

As these are back- up tapes, CIMB still has all customer information.

In a quick response to this incident, CIMB temporarily suspended some services via its call centre such as change of address, telephone number and/ or email address for banking/ credit cards; third party fund transfer or payment for customers without T-Pin; and T-Pin creation or requests.

“While no action is required on the part of customers, CIMB recommends that customers be extra vigilant and when in doubt, refer only to official CIMB channels such as its website, call centre and branches.

“We take our responsibility to our customers very seriously and we are confident the measures we have put in place will maintain the safety of customer transactions. Although this was an isolated incident, we have reviewed and further strengthened our security and internal processes to ensure that we remove the possibility of it recurring,” said Group Chief Executive, CIMB Group, Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Aziz.

“We apologise for the inconvenience that our heightened security measures may cause to our customers in the interim. Know that we are working very closely with all relevant authorities to mitigate any risk arising from this incident,” he said.

Customers who would like further information may call any of the following numbers: + 60 3 6204 7788 ( Consumer Banking), + 60 3 6204 7799 (Premier Card) 1300 88 5300 ( Preferred) 1300 88 8828 ( Business Call Centre – Commercial/Enterprise Banking) 1300 88 8068 ( Business Call Centre - Corporates).

Customers may also seek more information at any CIMB branch or via www.cimbbank.com.my or www. cimb- bizchannel. com. my — Bernama