Medibank has addressed the most recent dump of sensitive health data online after the hackers demanded a $15 million ransom.
“The release of this stolen data on the dark web is disgraceful,” CEO David Koczkar said.
“We take the responsibility to secure our customer data seriously and we again unreservedly apologise to our customers.
“We remain committed to fully and transparently communicating with customers and we will be contacting customers whose data has been released on the dark web.
“The weaponisation of people’s private information in an effort to extort payment is malicious, and it is an attack on the most vulnerable members of our community.
“These are real people behind this data and the misuse of their data is deplorable and may discourage them from seeking medical care.”
The file, while titled “abortions” online, is believed to include health data about Medibank customers who suffered difficult pregnancies.
Medibank said it would continue to offer support for customers, including ID protection, and a helpline for people in a “uniquely vulnerable” position after their private data was compromised (13 23 31 for Medibank and international customers, 13 42 46 for ahm customers and 1800 081 245 for My Home Hospital patients).
As people watch for scammers, it’s worth remembering that Medibank does not contact customers asking for password or sensitive information.
