The Optus data breach has reportedly hit about 9 million Australian customers.
The authorities believed that their personal data, such as mobile numbers and passwords, had been stolen or compromised in what seems to be the most massive cybersecurity attack that took place in the country.
Optus Cyberattack
According to 9news.com, the business operations of the telecommunications firm have not been impacted by the wide-scale security attack this week. However, the most affected by the event were the customers who could feel the aftermath of the data breach for the years to come.
As of writing, Optus is launching a probe to identify the potential mastermind behind the attack. The authorities will aim to find and retrieve all the data that has been stolen from the system.
Hi, we issued a press release and proactively reached out to the media as this is the quickest way to inform all our existing and former customers so they can be on high alert for anything suspicious. (1/2) ^George
— Optus (@Optus) September 23, 2022
Every Optus client might have been worried about the situation since their sensitive information, such as email addresses, names, and phone numbers, could have been contained by unidentified hackers.
Speaking of which, the company informs its customers that it will notify them regarding the classification of the stolen data.
Identity Fraud is Scary
Fake emails are all over the internet, and you need to be on the lookout to avoid them at all costs. The same goes for text messages that could instantly hack your personal data online.
The scary part of this data breach is the possibility that cybercriminals can use your identity and claim it as if it's your own.
In doing so, they can control access to your account and scam other people using your name, birth date, and ID number. This scenario is alarming to all affected users, especially if your stolen identity will be used to apply for loans.
In case you're worried about this worst-case scenario, you need to contact ID care to assist you in your concern.
Related Article: British FinTech Company Revolut Hit by Cyberattack, Compromises 50,000+ Client Data
How Can Optus Customers Secure Their Account?
According to South Coast Register, the government's watchdog Scamwatch has notified Optus customers to be prepared when their data has been stolen by the hackers.
The organization cited the importance of monitoring one's account to see if there are changes in the contact and other information.
To protect your confidential information, Scamwatch urges the Aussies to do the following:
Start by adding multi-factor authentication for your bank account.
Change all your linked passwords to your accounts. Having the same password for every account is an easy ground for hacking.
Regularly check your devices if there's suspicious activity.
In case you spot fraud on your account, immediately ask the bank to ban it on your credit report.
Another thing is that you should refrain from clicking any links from your email or text message. Tapping these links from scammers is extremely dangerous, and they can steal your precious information via keylogging methods.
If you suspect yourself or someone as a victim of the Optus cyberattack, you can contact 1800 595 160 and seek help from IDCare.
This article is owned by Tech Times
Written by Joseph Henry
