SYDNEY, May 23 (Xinhua) -- Australia's communication and media watchdog announced on Thursday that it has filed proceedings in the Federal Court against telecommunications company Optus over a massive data breach in 2022.
"Optus failed to protect the confidentiality of its customer's personal information from unauthorized interference or unauthorized access as required under the Telecommunications (Interception and Access) Act 1979," the Australian Communications and Media Authority alleged.
As Australia's second-largest telco, Optus suffered a cyberattack in September 2022, which exposed the data of up to its 10 million current and former customers.
The leaked information included names, dates of birth, phone numbers, email addresses, and ID document numbers, such as driver's license or passport numbers.
An Optus spokesperson noted a statement that at the current stage, the company is not able to determine the quantum of penalties, if any, that could arise.
According to the statement, Optus had previously apologized to customers and took steps, including working with police and other authorities, as well as reimbursing customers to replace documents.
"Optus intends to defend these proceedings. As the matter is now before the courts, Optus is unable to make any further comment," said the spokesperson. ■
