Origin confirms security breach includes customer data
Australia’s largest energy gentailer, Origin Energy, has confirmed that a data security breach has seen unauthorised access and disclosure of some customers’ data.
News of the breach was revealed when The Australian received correspondence from a hacker with a sample of 50 customer records containing names, addresses, emails, dates of birth, phone numbers, and billing history.
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An Origin spokesperson said in a statement, “We are working to understand the total number of impacted customers, and we will contact any customers where we can confirm they have been affected.
“For affected customers, impacted data may include name, address, date of birth, contact phone number and account information, as well as the last four digits of a credit card, or the last three digits of a bank account. Incomplete credit card or bank account information cannot be used to make purchases or access accounts.”
Origin CEO Frank Calabria said, “I’m sorry this has happened. Customers trust Origin with their information, and I apologise for the impact this may cause.
“We are contacting affected customers, offering support and have set up a dedicated contact number and additional resources to help manage our response to this incident.
“One of our key priorities is taking action to secure our systems and ensure no further unauthorised access. We are working with independent cyber experts to support Origin, and that work is continuing alongside the work of authorities,” Calabria said.
Related article: Origin Energy to refund customers after ACCC investigation
Origin is working with the Australian Cyber Security Centre, the Australian Federal Police, and the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner.
