Cunard closes online booking system after security mishap

Cunard had to close down access to their online systems after a huge technical error where over 1200 peoples details were emailed out in an attachment sent out to people registered with the company.


This security risk got a huge amount of publicity across the media, and was much discussed.






Cunard email sent out passengers contact information
Cunard seems to have inadvertently sent out an email with a spreadsheet attached. On it was contact information for 1225 Cunard passengers. It is not known how many people were sent this email.


It came to light when a person with the nickname "davyjones" made a posting on the Cruise Critic forum. 


He said: “I have received an email from Cunard with a spreadsheet file attached giving me the booking reference and names and email address of 1225 passengers. This information would allow me to see all the information such as address, contact number and passport information that you need to enter before your cruise. My name and number is on the list.”


Risk of criminal activity
The view being that as it had names, address, contact numbers and even passport details, that it would be possible for criminals to use these details for anything from planning break-ins knowing people would be away, to some form of identify fraud.


Cunard response

Cunard can confirm that an e-mail was sent in error to some guests containing details relating to other guests' bookings. We took swift action to close down the check-in system, Voyage Personalizer, until we are able to re-issue new secure log-in details to all affected guests. We are very sorry if this error has caused our guests any concern and we would like to reassure them that the issue has been dealt with and we are in the process of contacting relevant guests with new, secure log-in."

– JACKIE CHASE, CUNARD SPOKESWOMAn


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• Cunard leaks personal details of 1000+ passengers
• Cunard forced to shut online booking after emails error
• Cunard denies revealing passport details in customer data breach

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