Government launches investigation for data breach
The Victorian government has launched an investigation into a possible data breach that could have impacted thousands of families across the state.
Investigators are working to find out if a cyberattack on a tech company used by the Victorian government has hit people.
PNORS Technology Group, which works with various state departments like the Department of Education and Training, was attacked by threat actors recently.
Who is impacted?
The attack might have leaked medical records and answers for The School Entrant Health Questionnaire (SEHQ), which is filled out by every family in the state. Premier Daniel Andrews said it is not clear whether any personal information has been leaked.
"It's not determined yet, it's not definitive, but there's the potential for a breach," he said to the media on Saturday.
"They're working through that around the clock, and they're doing that job well. As soon as we have confirmation of anyone's records being compromised, then we will make a statement, and we'll work with any of those people."
The Department of Premier and Cabinet in a joint effort with PNORS Technology Group is meaning the extent of the information breach and to prevent similar attacks in the future.
What next?
The Victorian government's Cyber Incident Response Service has been informed and is taking needed action. Protecting Victorian systems and data is its top priority, it says.
The cyberattack comes after a recent high-profile compromise of Optus and Medibank, where threat actors stole data from millions of Australians.
What is the veteran card pledge?
Also last Sunday, the state government announced a $37 million election pledge for the Victorian Veteran Card as a help for veterans during the cost of living crisis.
Over 90,000 veterans across Australia are entitled to a $100 discount on the registration of one vehicle, plus free public transport on Remembrance Day and Anzac Day. Veteran Minister Shaun Leane said the state government would raise assistance for veterans if it wins the November 26 election.
He said: "Veterans' contributions don't end when they leave the defense force. Only Labor will support them to retrain and reskill because they still have so much to give to our community."
The statement comes following Mr. Andrews' address to the questions regarding his role in awarding two grants worth $3.4 Million to the Health Services Union in 2018.
The statement read:
"Regardless of any smear, innuendo, or media reporting based on anonymous sources, the only IBAC matters I will comment on are those that are the subject of a final report, as is appropriate and has always been my practice. Questions about what IBAC is or is not doing are a matter for the independent agency. I act appropriately at all times and in all things. That is the oath I swore, and I take it very seriously."
