Seoul's Ttareungi bike service to compensate users after data breach

Seoul's public bicycle service, Ttareungi, is notifying around 4.62 million users about a data breach that exposed personal information. The Seoul Facilities Corporation confirmed that notifications, detailing specific leaked data like user IDs, phone numbers, birthdates, and even weight, will begin on June 21. The extent of the leaked information varies per user depending on their registration details and timing.

The corporation plans to send out approximately 1.2 million text messages daily to inform users. Those who have changed their phone numbers or opted out of receiving messages can still inquire about their specific leaked data through the call center or email.

As a form of compensation for the breach, Ttareungi will provide all affected users with a 30-day regular pass, equivalent to a 5,000 won value, offering one hour of daily usage. This coupon will be distributed through the Ttareungi app next month and can be used within three months of issuance. For existing pass holders, the coupon will be valid for three months after their current pass expires.

The Seoul Facilities Corporation has taken steps to bolster its security, including reinforcing web vulnerabilities that led to the breach and enhancing monitoring for suspicious access. Regular security diagnostics and simulated penetration tests are now part of their protocol to prevent future incidents. They urge users to be cautious of phone calls or texts impersonating the corporation and to avoid clicking on suspicious links or installing unknown apps, emphasizing that they will never request personal or financial information via phone or text.

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We will thoroughly re-examine our security system and work closely with related agencies to ensure that citizens can use Ttareungi with peace of mind.