Personal information about Campbell River taxpayers remains secure after a hacker tried to access a software account used by B.C. municipalities.
On Friday, the city advised taxpayers, through a news release, that no personal or banking information was available through the Campbell River’s online accounting system when a computer hacking scheme tried to get into the MyCity software in July.
“The hacking effort targeted the pre-payments for taxes module of MyCity, and the City of Campbell River does not use that module, so property owners’ online information was not at risk,” said Laura Ciarniello, general manager of corporate services.
As well, the city’s web system does not contain sensitive information such as social insurance numbers, driver’s license, credit or debit card numbers, or personal banking information.
After the hacking attempt occurred, MyCity software owners notified the city of a possible security vulnerability on July 23.
“Even though the particular web service isn’t offered through Campbell River’s MyCity, we acted immediately to apply the security patches required,” said Ciarniello. “In addition to installing the security patch, city staff reviewed our computer systems and confirmed personal information remains secure. We’re sending out this notice in case people would like to take extra measures and change their passwords associated with Campbell River MyCity accounts.”
In other communities, the threat could have resulted in theft of customers’ login and password information, potentially providing unauthorized access to personal banking information.
The city recommends people change their MyCity Online password often. Here’s how:
- Go to https://payment.campbellriver.ca/tempestprod/mycity/secure/login.cfm
- Login to the service.
- Select the Profile menu on the left side.
- Change your security question and then select Update Your Profile.
- After updating your question, select Change Password and change your password.
E-mail questions to info@campbellriver.ca