I've copied this from a Facebook group; I assume it is correct.
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If you have used FreeBMD in the last hour or so, you will have noticed that we have placed a temporary restriction on post-1900 records. This was in response to an unknown actor abusing the website search and accessing large amounts of data. Although we understand Death data to be the only information accessed, we have implemented this measure to avoid access to records of living people, as we cannot be sure how the data might be used. We have also put measures in place that prevent this person/group from accessing our data in this way, and we are working to strengthen these barriers further.
We are also exploring placing reCAPTCHA on the volunteer login, in order to further protect your personal data. To be clear: there is no evidence at all that any security breach/hacking has taken place or will take place, it is just the search that is being abused which is a direct breach of our T&Cs. However, we deem it prudent to do what we can to err on the side of caution while this situation exists.
I want to reassure you that this is a temporary measure, and we are working hard to restore full service. We are sorry for any inconvenience and remain grateful for all you do for FreeBMD. Please do not hesitate to get in touch with me at
denise.colbert@freeukgenealogy.org.uk if you have any questions or comments.
Best wishes,
Denise
Denise Colbert
Chief Operating Officer, Free UK Genealogy CIO
Registered in England and Wales, number 1167484
