In a recent security incident, Qantas Airways confirmed a data breach affecting approximately six million customers following unusual activity detected on a third-party customer service platform used for storing personal information.
Qantas Faces Data Breach Affecting Six Million Customers
Qantas Faces Data Breach Affecting Six Million Customers
Cyber attack on third-party platform compromises personal information, airline assures no operational impact.
The Australian airline disclosed that on June 30, it observed unusual activity on the platform, prompting immediate containment efforts. Investigations are ongoing to assess the full scope of the breach, which officials anticipate may involve a "significant" amount of data. Affected data includes names, email addresses, phone numbers, birth dates, and frequent flyer numbers. However, Qantas emphasized that sensitive information such as passport details, credit card information, or frequent flyer account credentials remains secure and untouched.
In light of this incident, Qantas has reached out to the Australian Federal Police, the Australian Cyber Security Centre, and the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner to report the breach and seek guidance on addressing the situation. Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson articulated her apologies to the affected customers, acknowledging the anxiety this breach may incite and urging those with concerns to utilize a dedicated support line established for their queries.
Hudson also reassured the public that Qantas' operations and the safety protocols in place for the airline remain unaffected by the breach, maintaining that the integrity of flight safety is a priority.
This incident echoes a larger trend of increasing data breaches across Australia, as highlighted by recent attacks on companies such as AustralianSuper and Nine Media. The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner noted that 2024 was recorded as the year with the highest number of data breaches since accountability statistics began in 2018. Australian Privacy Commissioner Carly Kind urged enhanced security protocols for both businesses and public sectors to combat the rising tide of cyber threats.
As investigations continue, Qantas is determined to reinforce customer trust while navigating this challenging episode in its operational history.
In light of this incident, Qantas has reached out to the Australian Federal Police, the Australian Cyber Security Centre, and the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner to report the breach and seek guidance on addressing the situation. Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson articulated her apologies to the affected customers, acknowledging the anxiety this breach may incite and urging those with concerns to utilize a dedicated support line established for their queries.
Hudson also reassured the public that Qantas' operations and the safety protocols in place for the airline remain unaffected by the breach, maintaining that the integrity of flight safety is a priority.
This incident echoes a larger trend of increasing data breaches across Australia, as highlighted by recent attacks on companies such as AustralianSuper and Nine Media. The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner noted that 2024 was recorded as the year with the highest number of data breaches since accountability statistics began in 2018. Australian Privacy Commissioner Carly Kind urged enhanced security protocols for both businesses and public sectors to combat the rising tide of cyber threats.
As investigations continue, Qantas is determined to reinforce customer trust while navigating this challenging episode in its operational history.
