PM warns of ‘malicious’ hacks by foreign government
Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced on Friday that Australian organisations were being targeted by malicious cyber activity supported by state-based actors.
The details of the attack were provided by the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) to both the government and the opposition.
The activity was believed to be targeting all levels of government, industry, political organisations, education, health, essential service providers, and operators of other critical infrastructure.
“We know it is a sophisticated state-based cyber actor because of the scale and nature of the targeting and the tradecraft used,” Mr Morrison said.
The ACSC has been briefing states and territories on risks and mitigations.
“Cyber security is a shared responsibility of us all. It is vital that Australian organisations are alert to this threat and take steps to enhance the resilience of their networks,” Mr Morrison said.
The ACSC and the Department of Home Affairs has published a more detailed technical advisory with advice for Australian businesses and organisations to protect themselves.
Opposition leader Anthony Albanese said the attacks were serious and it was important for all sides of politics to act as one on this issue.
“We understand that from these briefings the relevant federal agency that all levels of government, critical infrastructure, and the private sector, are being targeted in a sophisticated state-based cyber operation,” Mr Albanese said.
“We support our security agencies and their efforts to address the serious and growing threat.
“We urge all Australians, Australian businesses, and other organisations, to listen to the advice that the Cyber Security Centre provides to the public.”
Are you worried about Australia being targeted in this way? Have you downloaded the CovidSafe app? Do you feel like your information is safe?
Yes I am concerned about such things -- I am sure many are