Tangerine, the latest company to be hacked in the Australian telecommunications sector, has unfortunately fallen victim to a significant data breach, wherein hackers managed to pilfer some personal information of an estimated 232,000 customers. The breach, which occurred on February 18, was brought to management’s attention on February 20, prompting Tangerine to notify affected individuals via email on February 21.
The compromised data encompassed customers’ complete names, email and postal addresses, and mobile numbers. However, Tangerine officials reassured customers that sensitive information such as credit or debit card details, banking information, and passwords remained inaccessible to the hackers. In a statement, the company said personal identity documents like passports and driver’s licenses were not part of the breach.
Efforts to rectify the situation included shutting down access to the compromised database, invalidating the credentials of suspected hackers, and enhancing internal security protocols. Tangerine has also enlisted the expertise of external cybersecurity specialists and engaged with relevant authorities such as the Australian Cyber Security Centre and the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner.
Tangerine has provided resources and guidance for impacted customers to mitigate potential risks. Current customers have been assured of the security of their accounts and the Tangerine Self Care Portal, with multi-factor authentication implemented for added protection. The company has also brought in an external cyber specialist and is in communications with the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) and the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner.
In light of the breach, affected individuals are encouraged to avail themselves of support services such as ID Care and remain vigilant against potential scams, utilizing resources provided by Tangerine and governmental agencies. Furthermore, customers are advised to proactively manage their online security, including regular password changes, skepticism towards unsolicited communications, and close monitoring of financial accounts.
The breach at Tangerine is part of a concerning trend within the telecommunications industry, echoing previous incidents at Optus, Telstra, iiNet, and Westnet. As such, customers are urged to adopt proactive measures to safeguard their personal information and remain vigilant in the face of evolving cyber threats.
Adopt a skeptical mindset
As scammers adapt and evolve, consumers must stay informed and proactive in protecting their personal and financial information. Adopting a skeptical mindset, verifying communications, monitoring financial accounts diligently, and exercising caution can significantly reduce the risk of falling prey.
Staying one step ahead is the key to a safe and secure travel experience in the digital age. For top-notch social media security, stay vigilant against online fraud and prioritize safeguarding your account’s privacy. Dive deeper into cyber consumer concerns and discover the best protection practices by accessing our interactive mobile app, FRAUDSTER, compatible with Apple and Android devices. Explore further at www.FraudsterApp.com. Already got the FraudsterApp? Tap the training icon on your home screen to improve your self-protection skills.
