A controversial anti-Islamist group has advised its members to stay vigilant following a leak of their details online. Hundreds of names and addresses linked to the English Defence League (EDL) were exposed after hackers breached one of the organization's websites.
The group warned its members about potential reprisals and advised them to "remain extra vigilant regarding their home and personal safety." The security breach occurred last weekend when hackers accessed a clothing website connected to the EDL. The attackers, identifying themselves as the "Mujahideen Hacking Unit," obtained lists of individuals who had recently purchased items from the site or donated money to the group.
The EDL has gained attention over the past year by organizing protests against what it terms the "Islamification" of Britain. Although the group claims it is neither racist nor anti-Muslim, opponents like United Against Fascism argue that the EDL's agenda is clearly Islamophobic.
The incident has been reported to the police. In a statement, the EDL apologized to members concerned about their safety, saying, "We don't anticipate any problems as these types of data theft are usually committed to cause annoyance rather than having any other ulterior motive. If, however, anyone feels threatened or unsafe, we urge you to contact the police immediately and explain the situation."
Despite these reassurances, some members remain worried that the leak could expose them or their families to actions from those who oppose the group's views. On the EDL's web forum, one user suggested that the breach had exposed "vulnerable people," while another expressed serious concern about the implications.
"It's not just about being scared for yourself," one poster wrote. "What about our families? People could lose their jobs because of this."
Earlier this month, the EDL made headlines over suggestions that a controversial American pastor would be invited to speak at a rally in Luton. Pastor Terry Jones, who leads the Dove World Outreach Center in Florida, had threatened to burn the Koran on the anniversary of 9/11. Although Home Secretary Theresa May faced pressure to ban Jones from entering the UK, the EDL eventually announced that he would not attend due to reservations about his activities.
This is not the first time controversial groups have been targeted by hackers. Last summer, several EDL sites were hacked by pro-Palestinian protesters. In 2008, a membership list belonging to the British National Party was leaked online.
