Qantas Confirms Hacker Breach Exposed Data of Six Million Customers

Australian airline Qantas has revealed that hackers infiltrated its customer data system, potentially compromising personal information for approximately six million passengers. The breach was detected during an internal cybersecurity investigation, prompting immediate steps to secure the affected systems.

Qantas confirmed that the exposed data includes names, contact information, and frequent flyer details. The airline emphasized that sensitive financial information such as credit card numbers and passport details were not accessed during the breach, according to their initial assessment.

In response, Qantas disclosed that it has taken its data storage systems offline as a precaution, notified cybersecurity authorities, and engaged leading security firms to assist in a thorough investigation. Affected customers are being contacted directly and offered complimentary identity protection services.

Qantas CEO said the company is treating the incident with the highest priority and is working to restore systems safely while minimizing disruptions to planned flights. The airline also pledged to strengthen its cybersecurity infrastructure and policies to prevent future breaches.

This incident underscores growing global concerns over cyberattacks targeting large corporations and their impact on consumer privacy and trust.

With input from Al Jazeera.