KT Reports Suspected Personal Data Leak via Illegal Micro Base Stations to Privacy Commission

Possible IMSI Leak for 5,561 Customers Confirmed
Free USIM Card Replacement Support Provided

Yonhap News Agency

KT announced on September 11 that it had identified evidence of customer information leakage through illegal micro base stations in connection with the recent small payment fraud incidents, and reported the matter to the Personal Information Protection Commission. Investigations revealed that the International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) information of a total of 5,561 customers may have been leaked externally as a result of this incident.

Upon confirming these circumstances, KT reported the case to the Personal Information Protection Commission on the afternoon of September 11 and notified the affected customers via SMS. A dedicated link was also provided, allowing customers to check if they were affected, apply for a USIM card replacement, and sign up for protection services.

KT stated that it will support free USIM card replacement and protection service enrollment for all customers who have records of receiving signals from illegal micro base stations. Immediate replacement is available at retail stores nationwide, through online channels, and at customer service centers. The company explained that it has secured sufficient USIM card inventory to ensure a smooth response.

KT defined this incident as "a serious matter directly related to customer trust" and issued a deep apology. In addition, the company is implementing follow-up measures to protect customers and prevent recurrence, including automatic blocking of abnormal payments, strengthening identity verification methods, conducting a full investigation and waiving charges, and operating a dedicated 24-hour customer service center.

In particular, a dedicated call center has been established and is in operation so that customers can immediately report any suspicious calls or text messages that may indicate misuse of personal information, or if they experience damage related to small payment fraud.

Currently, a joint investigation and probe involving the government, relevant agencies, and the police is underway to identify the specific types of illegal micro base stations and abnormal access methods involved. KT stated, "We will actively cooperate with the investigation to determine the cause and establish systemic improvements," and added, "We will also faithfully implement appropriate compensation procedures for affected customers."