Personal and banking details among customer data stolen in Origin Energy hack

Origin Energy customers are facing a data breach that has exposed personal and partial banking information, the company confirmed on Thursday. The energy giant, which serves 4.8 million customers across Australia with electricity, natural gas, LPG, and internet services, stated that impacted data may include names, addresses, dates of birth, contact phone numbers, and Origin account details. Crucially, the last four digits of credit card numbers or the last three digits of bank account numbers were accessed, though Origin asserts this incomplete information cannot be used for purchases or account access.

This incident follows an earlier revelation by Origin on Wednesday, where the company initially believed credit card or bank details were not compromised. The exact method of the hack remains undisclosed. Origin's chief executive, Frank Calabria, issued an apology, acknowledging customers' trust and expressing regret for the potential impact. "Customers trust Origin with their information, and I apologise for the impact this may cause," Calabria said.

The company is actively working to secure its systems and prevent further unauthorized access, collaborating with independent cyber experts and relevant authorities. The Australian Cyber Security Centre, the Australian Federal Police, and the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OIAC) are all involved in the investigation. The Australian newspaper reported being contacted by an individual claiming responsibility for the hack on Tuesday, prompting them to alert Origin, which subsequently led to the company's public statement.

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I’m sorry this has happened. Customers trust Origin with their information, and I apologise for the impact this may cause.