Federal Hack Runs Deep
The recently revealed hack of federal computers runs much deeper than previously thought.
Up to 14 million exposed in federal hack
A massive hack of the federal government may have compromised personal information belonging to 9 million to 14 million people, far more than was initially believed.
Multiple sources on Capitol Hill, within the federal workforce and around Washington have estimated that the final tally of people affected by the hack could easily eclipse the 4 million reported by the Obama administration.
Already, the theft of data from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is the largest data breach ever at the federal government. With an increase in the scope of the attack — which officials, speaking privately, have traced back to China — the Obama administration’s response will face further scrutiny and more questions about the state of the nation’s digital security.–http://thehill.com/policy/cybersecurity/244737-up-to-14-million-exposed-in-fed-hack
Officials say deeply personal information in hackers’ hands
Deeply personal information submitted by U.S. intelligence and military personnel for security clearances — mental illnesses, drug and alcohol use, past arrests, bankruptcies and more — is in the hands of hackers linked to China, officials say.
In describing a cyberbreach of federal records dramatically worse than first acknowledged, authorities point to Standard Form 86, which applicants are required to complete. Applicants also must list contacts and relatives, potentially exposing any foreign relatives of U.S. intelligence employees to coercion. Both the applicant’s Social Security number and that of his or her cohabitant are required.
…the hackers are now in possession of all personnel data for every federal employee, every federal retiree and up to 1 million former federal employees.”
“Former Rep. Mike Rogers, one-time chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, said last week that he believes China will use the recently stolen information for ‘the mother of all spear-phishing attacks.–http://www.stripes.com/news/us/officials-say-deeply-personal-information-in-hackers-hands-1.352202
