Peak communications consumer body ACCAN acknowledges the data breach impacting TPG Telecom sub-brand iiNet.
According to an ongoing TPG investigation, a list of historic information including 280,000 active iiNet email addresses, 20,000 active iiNet landline phone numbers, 10,000 iiNet user names, street addresses and phone numbers and around 1,700 modem set-up passwords was compromised.
Consumers affected by an information breach are right to feel concerned and should take steps to ensure that their identity and private information can be secured.
ACCAN CEO Carol Bennett said that affected customers can take proactive steps to protect their information.
"iiNet customers are the latest to be targeted by online criminals. This incident must prompt all businesses to review how they protect customer data, and to ensure that privacy and security practices are robust enough to prevent this sort of event from happening again."
"Affected customers should remain alert and take steps to safeguard their personal information. Support is also available from IDCARE, Australia's national identity and cyber support service, which can provide tailored advice to those who may be at risk."
"Australians have never been more exposed to cyber threats. The potential for harm when companies hold personal information is always present. This highlights the urgent need for stronger privacy protections, including limiting how long customer data is retained."
"It is important that communication with customers is fast, accurate, and clear. TPG's quick response and the information provided to customers is welcome."
"Thousands of cyber breaches occur in Australia each year. Businesses of all sizes must remain vigilant, supported by the important work of the Australian Cyber Security Centre and other branches of government," Ms Bennett concluded.
iiNet customers who are affected or concerned should contact TPG's dedicated hotline on 1300 861 036, or visit the live update page on the TPG website. Customers can also contact IDCARE on 1800 595 160 for free, expert advice and support.
About us:
The Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN) is Australia's peak communication consumer organisation. The operation of ACCAN is made possible by funding provided by the Commonwealth of Australia under section 593 of the Telecommunications Act 1997. This funding is recovered from charges on telecommunications carriers.
