Maine job match service hit with data breach
The vendor of a web-based job link service used by Maine and at least nine other states reported Tuesday it had been the victim of a malicious data breach.
A release posted on the MDOL’s website reported that America’s JobLink, a multi-state web-based system that links job seekers with employers, has been the victim of a hacking incident from a “malicious third party ‘hacker.’”
The hacker exploited a “vulnerability in the AJL application code to view the names, Social Security numbers and dates of birth of job seekers in the AJL systems of up to 10 states: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Maine, Oklahoma and Vermont,” according to the release.
After discovering the breach, the vendor took steps to disable the hacker’s access to its systems and is working with an independent forensic firm to determine how many job seeker accounts might have been accessed.
Recommended steps to take
MDOL issued a separate release with recommendations for Maine JobLink account holders, noting that new accounts created on or after March 16 are not affected by the data breach.
“Job seeker accounts that include a valid Social Security Number are potentially at most risk,” the release stated. “To check this please log into your JobLink account; as long as you were not actively filing for unemployment benefits you can delete your Social Security number from your JobLink account. You can do this online without calling the department.”
Additional information will be sent to the email on file in Maine JobLink to individuals determined most at risk in accordance with state law, the release stated.
MDOL also recommended that at-risk JobLink users take additional steps, including putting a freeze on their credit report as well as placing a free 90-day fraud alert on their credit reports with the three major credit reporting organizations.
Detailed instructions for taking these steps are available on the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation's website, MDOL stated.
MDOL also advised that those with additional questions can call 1-888-457-8883. “Due to an expected high call volume, your patience is appreciated,” the department stated.
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