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6h ago

SK Telecom Enrolls 24.1 Million in Protection Service as Data Breach Response Intensifies

South Korea's largest mobile carrier halts new subscriber sign-ups and struggles with USIM shortages after a major cyberattack exposed customer data.

This photo, taken May 5, 2025, shows a notice on the suspension of new sign-ups on the window of a store directly operated by SK Telecom Co. in Seoul. (Yonhap)
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SK Telecom Co. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ryu Young-sang bows to apologize for a large-scale data breach during a media briefing at the company's headquarters in downtown Seoul on May 2, 2025. (Yonhap)

Overview

  • SK Telecom has suspended new subscriber sign-ups nationwide to address USIM shortages following the April 18 cyberattack that leaked customer data.
  • Over 1.04 million customers have replaced their USIM cards, while 7.8 million await replacements due to inventory constraints.
  • The company has automatically enrolled 24.1 million users in its USIM Protection Service to safeguard against potential fraud.
  • Regulatory investigations by the Personal Information Protection Commission and Korea Internet & Security Agency are ongoing, with no reported cases of financial loss linked to the breach so far.
  • Temporary replacement booths have been set up at Incheon International Airport to assist international travelers affected by the breach.