On September 22, 2022, Optus notified its users that hackers had breached their database. Customer personal details such as contact details, addresses, names, and birth dates were carted away.
It has been reported that the Australian Cyber Security Center is working with Optus to secure its database and lockdown its systems to prevent further data breaches.
This latest data breach suffered by Optus has affected millions of users. However, the company has reportedly told the public that it is still assessing the size of users affected by the data breach.
"As soon as we knew, we took action to block the attack and began an immediate investigation. While not everyone may be affected and our investigation is not yet complete, we want all of our customers to know what happened as soon as possible so that they can increase their vigilance," Optus CEO Kelly Bayer Rosmarin said.
According to the CEO of Optus, Kelly Bayer Rosmarin, she said that they acted immediately to stop the cyber attack. She further stated that the company apologizes for the data breach.
"We are very sorry and understand customers will be concerned," she said.
While speaking on Optus's efforts to ensure that the situation is handled effectively, she said they had notified the appropriate authorities.
"Please be assured that we are working hard, and engaging with all the relevant authorities and organizations to help safeguard customers as much as possible," Rosmarin said.
Public Reaction to the Optus Data Breach
Newsvot has gathered some reactions from the public concerning the latest data breach experienced by Optus. Many people are dissatisfied with how Optus handled the situation regarding informing customers.
According to Guardian audience editor Dave Earley, "Checks emails. Nothing from Optus telling me about this," he said.
Another customer said, "terrible that customers are finding out via the media and not Optus."
However, Optus has assured its users that it will send "proactive personal notifications" to them. They also maintained that they would not send any links via SMS or customer emails.
Optus went on to tell customers who needed first-hand details of what happened to head to their official website.
Not all customers were satisfied with Optus sending them to their website without letting them know first.
A Twitter user said, "Dear Optus, thanks for making sure you sent a media release about your massive data breach affecting your customer's confidential information before actually notifying any of your customers.
Australian Cybersecurity Center Works Together with Optus
According to home affairs minister Clare O'Neil, cybersecurity advice and technical assistance are being provided to Optus by the Australian Cyber Security Center.
He further said cybercriminals and other enemy nations often target Australian companies and organizations.
According to him, "The Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) Australian Cyber Security Center (ACSC) has seen broad targeting of Australians and Australian organizations, through rapid exploitation of technical vulnerabilities by state actors and cyber criminals seeking to exploit weaknesses and steal sensitive data."