Optus responds to Federal Court proceedings over 2022 cyberattack
Optus says it is ready to defend itself after legal action was launched against it regarding the 2022 cyberattack.
In September of that year, Optus had to notify customers of a cyberattack and “the possible unauthorised access of current and former customers’ information”.
Optus was also forced to put a stop on all marketing and spend following the attack.
On Thursday, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) confirmed it has launched legal action against the telco in relation to the attack.
“We allege that during a data breach which occurred between 17 to 20 September 2022, Optus failed to protect the confidentiality of its customers’ personal information from unauthorised interference or unauthorised access as required under the Telecommunications (Interception and Access) Act 1979 (Cth),” the statement reads.
Optus responded to the news when contacted by Mumbrella soon after.
“At this stage, Optus Mobile is not able to determine the quantum of penalties, if any, that could arise,” a spokesperson told Mumbrella.
“Optus has previously apologised to its customers and has taken significant steps, including working with the police and other authorities, to protect them. It also reimbursed customers for the cost of replacing identity documents. Optus intends to defend these proceedings.
“As the matter is now before the courts, Optus is unable to make any further comment.”
The news comes only weeks after Optus announced its incoming CEO, Stephen Rue, following the resignation of Kelly Bayer-Rosmarin after last year’s disaster outage.
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Neil Griffiths is the Managing Editor of Mumbrella. He joined the company in October 2023.
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