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Hackers Break In To Fraternal Order Of Police Website; Officer Information Stolen

BENTON COUNTY (KFSM) — Police across the United States are finding themselves on the opposite side of a large investigation, after a data breach of one of...

BENTON COUNTY (KFSM) -- Police across the United States are finding themselves on the opposite side of a large investigation, after a data breach of one of the nation’s largest worker union’s.

Hundreds of police officers in Arkansas, and thousands across the country, were notified that their information had been stolen by computer hackers.

Bart Simpson, Vice President of the Arkansas Fraternal Order of Police, said they were notified by the organization’s national president.

“There had been a data breach of the grand lodge website. And, some of the personal information had been compromised,” Simpson said.

National President Chuck Canterbury sent an email out to members of the union saying information including names, addresses, dates of birth, and phone numbers had been stolen by hackers.

However, Canterbury made sure to point out social security numbers were not part of the information that was obtained.

Simpson said the hack didn’t steal information that was crucial.

“Most of the information can be contained; it is easily accessible through other websites anyway,” Simpson said.

Canterbury said it is believed that the hack was originated by someone overseas.

The hacked website is used by police officers all across the nation, as an outlet to communicate with each other, and share information on situations involving the union.

“It is a labor organization. That is how we keep tune with what is going on across the country, and within our organization,” Simpson said.

Simpson said the hack was immediately reported to authorities.

“Once they determine there had been a data breech, the website was shut down,” Simpson said. “The proper authorities were notified, including the FBI, and the department of justice cybercrime unit.”

In the meantime, the Fraternal Order of Police suggests that officers change their passwords across all accounts they may have used the same passwords on.

They should also keep an eye on their credit reports and tax statements, for any unusual activity.

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