Hackers are always looking for a free ride. From hacking big banks, city databases, or airline or hotel points, your data may become compromised. On or around August 29, 2020 my Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan account was hacked and I didn’t even notice it for almost a week!
Initially, I was having issues with checking a flight in my Alaska App. It kept signing me out and back on, but it appeared to be working. Then, the app locked me out and made me change my password. I didn’t think much of it and continued to adjust my flight. Next, I checked my account miles and they too were correct. All good, just a buggy app.
Nearly a week later, I was making adjustments to a flight and I noticed that the “send to” email was russthebus86…Wait a minute, that is not my email! I frantically changed my password again and started exploring account activity.
Sure enough, my account was compromised. Thankfully though, Alaska noticed first and cancelled the two tickets that the hackers purchased. My miles are safe, at least for now.
Next, over to my wallet. SHOOT, money was missing, but this has yet to be refunded. I called Alaska Airlines up immediately, but it was already 10pm and Customer Care was closed. I was able to provide the reservation agent with the ticket number and the agent confirmed that the ticket was already marked as “No Go”. Alaska’s fraud team for the win again! Except I was still out a few bucks.
The agent notified me that there was also a block on my account, and I would have to call customer care in the morning to get the block lifted and the money refunded.
Overall, I am impressed with Alaska for catching the fraudulent activity. I just wished they would have notified me verses me having to call the airlines. Either way, I’d rather this be the scenario than being out all my miles and wallet funds.
Was your Alaska Airlines account hacked recently? Be sure to review activity frequently so you do not become a victim of travel hackers.
