Air Europa

2023: Hacking the payment system. Customer bank card details stolen

On October 10, 2023, Spanish airline Air Europa reported a cyber attack on its IT infrastructure. As a result of a hacker invasion, customer bank card data was stolen. This information can be used to organize various fraudulent schemes for withdrawal purposes.

It is reported that the attackers attacked one of the Air Europa computer systems. Cybercriminals had at their disposal information such as bank card numbers, expiration dates and a three-digit CVV (Card Verification Value) code on the back. As of October 11, 2023, the air carrier does not specify the number of affected customers and does not assess the financial consequences of the cyber attack. It is not clear when the hacker intrusion took place: the investigation into the incident is ongoing.

Spanish airline Air Europa reports cyber attack on its IT infrastructure

We inform you that recently a cyber incident occurred in one of our systems related to possible unauthorized access to bank card data. We have protected our systems, ensuring that they function properly. There is no evidence that the data stolen in the invasion was eventually used to commit fraud, Air Europa said in a statement.

At the same time, the airline recommends that customers who have received notifications of data theft contact their banks to cancel the cards used on the Air Europa website. This is due to the "risk of card forgery and fraud" and possible "unauthorized use." Customers are also advised not to share their personal information with anyone who contacts them by phone or email, or to open any links in emails or messages warning of fraudulent transactions with their cards.^[1]

2019: Sale of the company to IAG Holding

In November 2019, it was announced that the IAG holding bought the Spanish airline Air Europa for 1 billion euros. The holding already owns the Spanish airline Iberia.

The IAG said the deal opens up new prospects for Madrid, which could compete with Amsterdam, Frankfurt, London and Paris.

IAG is confident that the purchase of a Spanish airline will help the holding take a leading position in the air transportation market not only in Europe, but also in Latin America.

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