Sahir has been informed of a security breach involving Beacon, the external donor management system used by Sahir and many other charities.

Beacon has told us that an unauthorised person gained access to its systems and downloaded copies of its databases. Unfortunately, this means that some personal information belonging to Sahir’s donors and supporters has been compromised.

The information affected may include names, addresses, email addresses, telephone numbers, donation histories, Gift Aid information and records of correspondence with Sahir.

Beacon has advised that there is currently no evidence that full payment-card details, card security codes or online banking information were taken.

The breach did not originate from Sahir’s own systems. However, we recognise that this is information entrusted to us, and we are extremely sorry for the concern this may cause.

Sahir’s Chairman of Trustees has been informed and is being kept fully updated. We have also reported the incident to the Information Commissioner’s Office and are continuing to seek information and assurances from Beacon.

Please be alert to phishing

The information taken could be used to make fraudulent emails, telephone calls or text messages appear convincing. We therefore ask supporters to be particularly cautious about unexpected communications referring to Sahir, Beacon, donations or Gift Aid.

Sahir will never unexpectedly ask you to provide:

* your password;
* your full payment-card details;
* your card security code; or
* an online banking security code.

Please do not click links, open attachments or provide financial information in response to a suspicious message. Contact Sahir directly using the details published on our website if you are unsure whether a communication is genuine.

There is currently no evidence that the affected information has been published or used fraudulently. We will update this statement should further relevant information become available.

Anyone with concerns is welcome to contact Sahir. Our Chief Executive, Simon Harris, is personally overseeing our response and will be happy to speak with affected supporters.