• Aflac reports a cybersecurity incident where customer data may have been compromised.
• The attack, attributed to a sophisticated cybercrime group, happened on June 12.
• Potentially affected data includes Social Security numbers and health-related information.

Aflac has disclosed a significant cybersecurity incident that may expose personal customer information. The company identified the breach on June 12, caused by a "sophisticated cybercrime group," and has initiated an investigation with third-party cybersecurity experts. Aflac has not identified the group responsible and is currently unable to determine how many individuals may be affected, according to Channel News Asia.

The cyberattack has raised alarms as it follows a trend of similar breaches targeting the insurance sector, which has recently included attacks on other companies like Philadelphia Insurance and Erie Insurance. Aflac confirmed that the incident could involve sensitive information such as Social Security numbers and health reports, indicating a worrying trend in cybersecurity threats faced by the insurance industry, according to ABC News and CBS News.

While Aflac successfully halted the intrusion within hours, the attack has reaffirmed the growing vulnerability of insurance companies to cyber threats. The firm indicated that the hackers utilized "social engineering tactics" to infiltrate its network, a method that has been increasingly used to target similar organizations, according to Newsweek.

To mitigate the situation, Aflac is offering affected customers free credit monitoring and identity theft protection for 24 months. The company emphasized that, despite the breach, it continues to operate normally, maintaining its ability to underwrite policies and handle claims, assuring customers of ongoing support during this critical time, as mentioned by Channel News Asia, ABC News, and CBS News.