Cybercrime Squad detectives have started an investigation into an alleged data breach threatening to share the personal details of more than one million people, including residents in the Hunter.
The violation involves a third-party IT provider called Outabox used by venues such as RSLs and licensed clubs for digital sign-in services.
It’s understood at least three premises in the region – Mex Club Mayfield, East Maitland Bowling Club and East Cessnock Bowling Club – have been impacted, along with several others throughout NSW and the ACT.
The data involved includes facial recognition biometrics, scans of driver licences, signatures, club membership data, addresses, birthdays and details about visits to venues such as slot machine usage.
Officers attached to State Crime Command’s Cybercrime Squad were alerted to a website on Wednesday 1 May, which had published patrons’ personal information.
That breach is now being investigated under Strike Force Division, which aims to uncover how it occurred and which, if any, criminal offences are connected to such an infringement.
Detectives are working closely with other federal and state agencies to contain the breach and have the site taken offline as a matter of priority.
The Commander of the Cybercrime Squad, Detective Acting Superintendent Gillian Lister, said the incident should act as a reminder for people to check their personal cyber security.
“Now is the optimal time to make sure your cyber hygiene is good,” she stated.
“Please ensure you have strong passwords and are using two-factor authentication where possible.
“If you think your details may have been compromised, use extra caution when reviewing emails or texts and never click on a suspicious or unfamiliar link.
“Always make sure to report incidents of cybercrime through the Australian Cyber Security Centre or Scamwatch.”
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