Legal Aid Agency Cybercrime Incident

The Legal Aid Agency recently became aware of a cyber-attack to its online digital services.  The incident does not involve our IT or case management systems but it is possible that a small number of our Clinical Negligence and Catastrophic Injury Department clients may be affected.

Initial indicators were that limited information was accessed but the Legal Aid Agency recently confirmed the incident is more extensive than originally thought.

We understand personal data from those who applied for legal aid through the Legal Aid Agency digital service since 2010 may have been accessed and as a precaution the Legal Aid Agency’s online portal has been taken offline. 

The advice from the Information Commissioner’s Office is that anyone who may be affected should take steps to safeguard themselves. It is recommended that any potentially exposed passwords are updated and that anyone potentially affected is alert to any suspicious activity including emails and phone calls. If you are in doubt about anyone you are communicating with online or on the phone you should verify their identity independently before providing any information to them.

A Legal Aid Agency cyber-security incident GOV.UK page has been created to offer a dedicated space with the latest information. The Legal Aid Agency has also set up a contact telephone line for members of the public concerned about the incident.  The number is 0300 200 2020.