We are writing to let you know about a cyber security incident involving Beacon, the customer relationship management (CRM) system that we use to manage supporter information.
What happened?
Beacon recently informed us that it experienced a cyber security incident involving unauthorised access to copies of customer database backups. As Beacon provides CRM services to a number of charities and organisations, this incident is not limited to Safe Haven for Donkeys and has affected multiple Beacon customers. Beacon has engaged independent cyber security specialists, is working with the relevant authorities, and continues to investigate exactly what happened. At this stage, there is no evidence that any personal information has been misused because of this incident. Beacon has confirmed that its systems remain operational and secure for continued use.
What action has been taken?
Beacon has also confirmed that it has identified and addressed the vulnerability that led to the incident. It has reset relevant system credentials, strengthened the security of its cloud environment, and has implemented enhanced monitoring and threat detection across its systems. According to Beacon and its independent cyber security specialists, there is currently no evidence of any ongoing unauthorised access following these actions.
As soon as we were notified, we acted immediately in line with Beacon’s guidance and our own robust data protection procedures to reset passwords and all external integrations.
What information may have been involved?
We appreciate that news like this may cause concern, and we want to provide reassurance wherever we can.
Importantly, we do not store payment card details, bank account information or other highly sensitive information within our systems. There is therefore no evidence that any financial information relating to our supporters has been compromised.
While the investigation is ongoing, the information potentially involved may include contact details and records of your relationship with our charity, such as communication preferences, donation history, or Gift Aid status.
At present, there is no evidence that any personal data has been misused.
Do I need to do anything?
As a precaution, we recommend remaining vigilant for any unexpected emails, phone calls or messages claiming to be from organisations you know and trust. Please never share passwords, financial information, or other sensitive personal information in response to unsolicited requests. If you have any concerns as to whether the person you are communicating with is from Safe Haven, please call us on 01444 470136. Emails from us will come from an @safehaven4donkeys.org e-mail address, with the exception of automated emails thanking you for a donation or setting up an adoption which you have made online which come from an @beaconmail email address.
Our commitment to you
Protecting the information entrusted to us is something we take extremely seriously. We know that our supporters place their trust in us not only to protect wildlife, but also to safeguard their personal information. We deeply regret any concern this situation may cause and want to assure you that we are doing everything possible to manage it carefully, responsibly, and transparently.
We will continue to monitor developments and will provide further updates should we receive any significant new information from Beacon’s ongoing investigation.
Contact us
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us at wendy@safehaven4donkeys.org or 01444 470136.
Thank you for your continued support, understanding, and trust.
