The group responsible for Australia’s Medibank data hack have been identified
A Russian criminal gang is behind the latest data breach to grip Australian consumers.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) has identified REvil, a Russian-based ransomware crime group as the perpetrators behind the hack.
Over 9.7 million customers from Medibank—one of the nation’s largest health insurers—have been embroiled in the leak.
“Let me say this, I am disgusted by the perpetrators of this criminal act,” said the nation’s Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese.
On Friday, a third wave of health data was published online in relation to people’s mental health, and drug and alcohol use.
Around 240 people were identified in the file, which was titled ‘boozy’.
“We know where they’re coming from, we know who is responsible, and we say that they should be held to account,” Mr Albanese said.
“The fact is that the nation where these attacks are coming from, should also be held accountable for the disgusting attacks, and the release of information including very private and personal information.”
ANTHONY ALBANESE, AUSTRALIA’S PRIME MINISTER
The AFP’s Commissioner, Reece Kershaw said the hacking event constitutes a crime, which could potentially impact millions of Australians.
“This cyber attack is an unacceptable attack on Australia and it deserves a response that matches the malicious and far-reaching consequences that this crime is causing,” he said.
On Thursday, 303 women had their abortion records published on the dark web.
The leaks began after Medibank refused to pay a $10 million ransom, which equates to around $1 per affected customer.
Commissioner Kershaw said there may also be some affiliates operating in other countries.
“I know Australians are angry, distressed and seeking answers about the highly-sensitive and deeply personal information that is being released by criminals who breached Medibank Private’s data base.”
REECE KERSHAW, AUSTRALIAN FEDERAL POLICE
Russian authorities claimed the group had disbanded earlier this year. However, the group has recently made a resurgence.
David Koczkar is the chief executive at Medibank, who said the hackers are expected to continue releasing the “stolen” data every day.
“The relentless nature of this tactic being used by the criminal is designed to cause distress and harm.”
“These are real people behind this data and the misuse of their data is deplorable and may discourage them from seeking medical care,” Koczkar said.
Medibank is in the process of contacting affected customers.
Costa is a news producer at ticker NEWS. He has previously worked as a regional journalist at the Southern Highlands Express newspaper. He also has several years' experience in the fire and emergency services sector, where he has worked with researchers, policymakers and local communities. He has also worked at the Seven Network during their Olympic Games coverage and in the ABC Melbourne newsroom.
He also holds a Bachelor of Arts (Professional), with expertise in journalism, politics and international relations. His other interests include colonial legacies in the Pacific, counter-terrorism, aviation and travel.
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