The CEO and staff of Nova Scotia Power were the targets of grilling questions from provincial politicians at legislature, Tuesday, over the cybersecurity breach that has affected around 280,000 customers.
Thieves gained access to private information of Nova Scotians in March, including around 140,000 customers who have given their social insurance numbers.
However, the utility says they were not aware of anything suspicious until late April.
CEO of Nova Scotia Power, Peter Gregg started off the session by issuing an apology.
“We understand it is very concerning and we’re working hard to address customer issues and to continue to strengthen our systems as we work to restore and rebuild,” said Gregg.
Gregg added that it was a “sophisticated” attack, and they are committed to being as “open” and “transparent” as possible and will start in-person support for various communities across the province.
Meanwhile, Claudia Chender, the leader of the NDP, push pressure on the utility to answer why they stored social insurance numbers.
“Why were those social insurance numbers still in your system. So, notwithstanding the sophistication of cybercriminals and what’s happening, why is that information being held by Nova Scotia Power,” asked Chender.
Nova Scotia Power referred to an ongoing investigation on the matter.
Questions continued on how the breach happened and what the utility will do to avoid financial implications for its customers.
Those affected have been offered free credit monitoring for two years.
