All four million Medibank customers should stay vigilant to scams following the cyber attack.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
The insurer confirmed on Wednesday the personal information of all customers, including ahm and international students, was accessed by hackers.
The stolen data includes first names and surnames, addresses, dates of birth, Medicare numbers, policy numbers and phone numbers.
Some claims data, including the location of where a customer received medical services and codes related to their diagnoses and procedures, had also been compromised.
The Australian Government has reassured people that Medicare details cannot be accessed with only the Medicare card number.
"If Medibank Private or ahm has advised you that your Medicare card number was exposed and you're concerned, you can replace your Medicare card," the alert said.
Tips for Medibank customers:
- Be alert for scams referencing Medibank
- Remain vigilant to suspicious communications received via email, text or phone call
- Medicare cards can be replaced at my.gov.au
- If you are concerned that your identity has been compromised or you have been a victim of a scam, contact your bank immediately and call IDCARE at idcare.org or call 1800 595 160
- Secure and monitor your devices and accounts for unusual activity, and ensure they have the latest security updates. Enable multifactor authentication for all accounts. Visit cyber.gov.au for help.
- If you think you may be affected by the breach, contact Medibank Private on 13 23 31 or ahm on 13 42 46
- If your identity has been stolen, you can apply for a Commonwealth Victims' Certificate
- Customers can speak to Medibank's mental health professionals 24/7 to discuss any mental health questions or issues. Free service for all Medibank and ahm customers. Call 1800 644 325.
- If you are in a uniquely vulnerable position as a result of this cybercrime, call Medibank on 13 23 31
- The Australian Government has released a factsheet to provide further information.
Federal cyber security minister Clare O'Neil called the attack a "dog act".
"Australians who are struggling with mental health conditions, drug and alcohol addiction or diseases that carry some shame or embarrassment, are entitled to keep that information private and confidential, and for a cybercriminal to hang this over the heads of Australians is a dog act," she said in parliament on Tuesday.
IN OTHER NEWS
"It is scum-of-the-earth, lowest-of-the-low territory."
Medibank chief executive David Koczkar apologised to customers.
"This is a terrible crime - this is a crime designed to cause maximum harm to the most vulnerable members of our community," he said.
Nadine Morton
Nadine Morton covers emergency services and breaking news for the Illawarra Mercury. She takes pride in regional journalism which she believes is crucial to informing our towns and cities. Have a story? Email her at nadine.morton@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Nadine Morton covers emergency services and breaking news for the Illawarra Mercury. She takes pride in regional journalism which she believes is crucial to informing our towns and cities. Have a story? Email her at nadine.morton@austcommunitymedia.com.au
