Sensitive personal data, including mobile phone numbers, of high-ranking German officials has been reportedly found for sale through commercial data brokers. The disclosure, revealed by “Der Spiegel” magazine citing information from an Italian whistleblower, indicates that the data of the German Chancellor, cabinet members, heads of authorities and leading military figures became accessible.
The compromised data extends to Claudia Plattner, head of the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) and Louisa Specht-Riemenschneider, the Federal Data Protection Commissioner. The BSI has confirmed the accuracy of the mobile number attributed to its president, Plattner.
The BSI stated that the aggregation of data, its unclear origin, its currency and the ease of access presented a heightened risk of targeted phishing attacks and identity theft. In response, the agency is engaging with the Federal Criminal Police Office, ministries and affected individuals while meticulously evaluating potential next steps.
Louisa Specht-Riemenschneider learned of her own data’s availability through “Der Spiegel”‘s investigation and expressed her disapproval. While trusting that authorities are working to combat illegal business practices, she advocated for stronger legislative measures to prevent data brokers’ activities. The Press Office of the Federal Chancellery declined to comment on the Chancellor’s communications channels for security reasons.
