Hertz Data Breach Raises Concerns Over Customer Privacy

The digital landscape is increasingly vulnerable, especially as companies collaborate with multiple vendors for crucial business operations. This collaboration often necessitates sharing sensitive customer data. Unfortunately, not all vendors prioritize cybersecurity, leaving gaps that hackers are keen to exploit.

As cyberattacks evolve, malicious actors are increasingly targeting the weakest links in the digital supply chain. These breaches can occur without fully compromising a company’s core systems, leading to significant exposure of customer information. The implications of such security failures are profound—affecting both businesses and their clientele.

One recent incident highlighting these vulnerabilities involves Hertz, the well-known car rental giant, which has confirmed a breach of customer data due to a cyberattack on one of its software vendors.

Hertz, which also operates Dollar and Thrifty, disclosed that thousands of customers were impacted when sensitive data was compromised due to a cyberattack on the third-party vendor Cleo between October and December of 2024. Although Hertz’s internal systems remained secure, the exposure occurred via shared data that was managed by the vendor.

This breach reveals a concerning range of compromised information. Depending on the region, the data includes critical personal details such as names, dates of birth, contact numbers, driver’s license numbers, and in some cases, Social Security numbers and other state-issued identification. Additionally, certain financial information, including payment card details and workers’ compensation claims, was also stolen.

In the United States, regulatory disclosures were made in California, Texas, and Maine. Specifically, data from 3,457 individuals in Maine and 96,665 individuals in Texas was exposed. However, the total number of affected individuals worldwide is expected to be significantly higher, with customers across Australia, Canada, the European Union, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom also notified via breach alerts on Hertz’s regional websites.

Identifying the Threat Actor

Experts suggest that the breach may have been orchestrated by the Clop ransomware gang, a notorious hacking group linked to Russia. The group exploited a zero-day vulnerability in Cleo’s enterprise file transfer software, which many large organizations use to securely transmit sensitive data. Throughout 2024, Clop initiated a mass hacking campaign aimed at Cleo’s user base, resulting in the theft of data from over 60 companies, Hertz included.

Interestingly, Hertz was listed on Clop’s dark web leak site in 2024. Initial assessments from the company suggested no evidence that their systems were compromised, which has raised questions about internal communication and transparency regarding cybersecurity measures.

In a statement to CyberGuy, a Hertz spokesperson emphasized the importance of personal information security, indicating that the Cleo incident involved a vendor used for limited purposes. They also noted that a forensic investigation indicated Hertz’s network had not been breached. However, they acknowledged that unauthorized third parties acquired customer data following the exploitation of vulnerabilities in Cleo’s platform.

Implications of the Data Exposure

Although Hertz’s core systems remained intact, the exposure of customer data—including driver’s license numbers and other identification—presents a significant risk. Those impacted may face threats like identity theft, fraudulent accounts, and phishing attempts. A breach involving Social Security numbers elevates the potential for harm, making vigilance essential for anyone who rented a vehicle from Hertz, Dollar, or Thrifty between October and December of 2024.

Steps for Victims of the Hertz Data Breach

If you believe you might be affected by this data breach or wish to enhance your personal security, consider the following proactive measures:

1. Be vigilant against phishing emails: Ensure you have strong antivirus software. Attackers can use your email and phone number to impersonate trusted entities, leading to potential security risks.

2. Remove personal data from public databases: After the breach, minimizing your online presence can reduce the risk of identity theft. Consider using personal data removal services to protect your information.

3. Safeguard against identity theft: With high-value data now accessible to cybercriminals, consider identity theft protection services that include 24/7 monitoring and alert systems.

4. Set up fraud alerts: Fraud alerts can provide an additional layer of security by requiring creditors to verify identity before issuing credit in your name.

5. Regularly monitor credit reports: Utilize services allowing you to check your credit report regularly. This vigilance can help you detect unauthorized activities sooner.

6. Change passwords and consider using a password manager: Update passwords for any accounts related to compromised data, opting for complex combinations facilitated by a password manager.

7. Stay cautious of social engineering tactics: Be aware that attackers may attempt to utilize personal details obtained from the breach to extract more sensitive information through deceitful tactics.

A Broader Cybersecurity Concern

The Hertz data breach exemplifies a larger challenge in cybersecurity, where threats may often originate outside a company’s primary network. As businesses enhance their internal security measures, they must also rigorously evaluate third-party vendors and their security protocols. Consumers, consequently, may need to exercise discretion, recognizing that trust in a brand does not guarantee robust data protection.

This incident raises fundamental questions regarding the permissibility of data collection when companies are unable to secure the information entrusted to them. As we delve deeper into this pressing issue, feedback is crucial. Share your insights and experiences with us.

This encrypted landscape necessitates further examination, calling for a collective approach to ensuring digital safety for all consumers.