Fraudsters access KLM customer details in data breach

By PAUL O’DONOGHUE, Senior Correspondent

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has warned customers of a data breach after “fraudsters” accessed a third‑party system used by the airline.

The company said the attack did not affect core systems or sensitive information. However, it said the stolen data could still help criminals run targeted scams.

The airline warned customers to be on the lookout for phishing attacks and scams.

In its email, KLM told customers: “We are reaching out to you because of a recent data breach involving your personal data.

“Specifically, a fraudster gained limited access to a third‑party system that is used by KLM.”

KLM said data “such as credit card details, passport numbers, Flying Blue Miles balances, passwords or booking information were not involved”.

KLM data breach details

However, it also said: “We have confirmed that some of your personal data were exposed by this breach.”

The airline said this may include personal information such as names and contact details.

The company urged customers to watch for phishing attempts. “The data involved in this breach could be used to make phishing messages appear more credible,” the email said. “If you receive unexpected messages or phone calls, please check their authenticity.” It warned customers to be especially wary of calls “asking for personal information or urging you to take action”.

The email added: “Our dedicated teams, together with the third‑party system involved, quickly took the necessary steps to address the situation, and have reinforced protective measures to prevent this from happening again.”

The airline reported the matter to the Dutch Data Protection Authority in line with EU privacy laws.

KLM said impacted customers may contact the KLM Customer Center.

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