Are KT and LG Uplus Facing Investigation for Data Leaks?
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Synopsis
In light of alarming reports of unauthorized mobile payments, KT Corp. and LG Uplus Corp. are under scrutiny by the data protection regulator. This investigation raises critical questions about customer data security in South Korea. Stay tuned as we unravel the implications of this situation for users and the telecom industry.
Key Takeaways
- KT Corp. and LG Uplus Corp. are under investigation for customer data leaks.
- 124 unauthorized payments reported, totaling 80.6 million won in damages.
- The PIPC is actively investigating the situation.
- Similar issues have been reported in nearby regions.
- Penalties for data breaches can reach up to 3% of total sales.
Seoul, Sep 10 (NationPress) The data protection regulator initiated an investigation on Wednesday into prominent telecommunications firms KT Corp. and LG Uplus Corp. concerning potential breaches of customer data, triggered by a spate of unauthorized mobile transactions reported by KT subscribers.
This action follows numerous reports from KT customers in the southwestern region of Seoul and adjacent areas within the greater capital region, who have raised alarms over unauthorized payments, as indicated by reports from Yonhap news agency.
The Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC) disclosed its decision to examine both carriers, emphasizing that it had been alerted to the allegations of data leaks recently highlighted in the media.
"Despite the companies not reporting any personal data breaches, we have commenced an investigation focused on validating the details of the event and determining if personal information has indeed been compromised, following requests from community groups and reports from victims of unauthorized payments," stated the PIPC in a press release.
As of Tuesday, KT users have reported a total of 124 instances of unauthorized mobile payments since August 27, with losses amounting to 80.6 million won (approximately US$58,000), according to the Gyeonggi Nambu Provincial Police.
The reported incidents have originated from the Geumcheon district in Seoul and surrounding cities such as Gwangmyeong and Bucheon, with additional similar reports emerging from Incheon and Gwacheon.
Authorities have been collaborating with KT to delve deeper into this matter.
On Tuesday, the Ministry of Science established a special task force to investigate the unauthorized mobile payments.
In related news, the data protection regulator is poised to impose penalties on SK Telecom Co. following a significant data breach that impacted millions of customers.
In April, SK Telecom belatedly disclosed a breach involving the possible leakage of universal subscriber identity module (USIM) data due to a cyberattack on its servers, which led the company to provide complimentary USIM replacements to around 25 million users. The regulator has since concluded its investigation into this breach and informed SK Telecom of the planned actions late last month.
Under the personal information protection law, companies may face fines of up to 3 percent of their total revenue, although revenue from unrelated sectors may be excluded from this calculation.
Point of View
It is imperative to remain committed to informing the public about the ongoing issues surrounding data security and consumer protection. The investigation into KT and LG Uplus underscores the need for robust regulatory measures and accountability in the telecommunications sector.
NationPress
10/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the investigation into KT and LG Uplus?
The investigation was initiated following reports of unauthorized mobile payments made by KT users, raising concerns about potential data leaks.
How many unauthorized payments have been reported?
As of Tuesday, a total of 124 cases of unauthorized mobile payments were reported, resulting in significant financial losses.
What actions are being taken against SK Telecom?
The data protection regulator is planning to impose penalties on SK Telecom for a major data breach affecting millions of customers.
What legal implications do the companies face?
Under the personal information protection law, companies can be fined up to 3% of their total sales, depending on the nature of the violation.
What is the role of the Personal Information Protection Commission?
The PIPC is responsible for investigating data breaches and ensuring the protection of personal information in South Korea.
