A small number of Medibank customers have had their medical information compromised so far, says Cyber Security Minister Clare O’Neil, but this is expected to grow.
“But I want the Australian people to understand that this is likely to change, and we are now going through a difficult period that could last weeks, possibly months, not days and hours.
“I cannot articulate the disgust I have for the scoundrels who are at the heart of this criminal act.
“People have the right to keep their health information private. Even among ransomware attackers, the idea of releasing other people’s personal medical information is considered beyond the pale. So make no mistake, this is not is any group of criminals, this is the lowest of the low.
“The Prime Minister said this morning that he is a Medibank customer like millions of other Australians… The Australian government has been preparing for the eventuality that is happening now for a few weeks.”