Possibly the largest data leak in the history of the Danish CPR registry

Danish media claim that the largest data leak in the history of the registry may have occurred.

“Staying vigilant now and in the future.”

Digital Minister Christina Egelund described the incident as "very serious" and called on citizens to "remain vigilant now and in the future."

As the ministry said in a statement, "unauthorized persons" used access to search for information in the CPR system, which the Danish company legally had. This access has been blocked and the matter is under investigation by the police and the Danish Personal Data Supervisory Authority. The parliamentary digital affairs committee was also informed about the incident.

What threatens the Danes?

According to Egelund, it is not known what the practical consequences of the data leak will be. Cybersecurity expert from Aarhus University, prof. Jens Myrup Pedersen estimated that if data from the CPR register was stolen, it could be used for phishing attacks. Citizens may receive e-mails and text messages that appear to come from the authorities in order to extort money or further data.

Media in Denmark estimate that there may have been the largest data leak in the history of the CPR register, commentators wonder whether it will be necessary to assign new personal numbers.

Danish CPR register

The CPR register includes data on approximately 11 million citizens, living and deceased, as well as residents and Danes who have moved abroad.

Denmark is inhabited by over 6 million people.