Overview

• Hackers accessed and downloaded sensitive data of legal aid applicants dating back to 2010, including contact details, criminal records, and financial information.
• The Ministry of Justice discovered on May 16 that the breach was more extensive than initially thought, prompting the shutdown of the Legal Aid Agency's online services.
• Affected individuals have been urged to update exposed passwords, monitor for suspicious activity, and verify communications before sharing personal information.
• The Ministry of Justice is collaborating with the National Crime Agency, National Cyber Security Centre, and Information Commissioner to investigate and mitigate the breach.
• Critics have highlighted the outdated IT infrastructure of the Legal Aid Agency, calling for urgent investment to modernize systems and restore public trust.