Telecommunications giant Optus has been hit with a substantial financial penalty after a security failure at its subsidiary allowed fraudsters to hijack customer accounts and steal thousands of pounds.
Major Fine for Security Lapses
The Australian parent company, Optus, has been fined $826,320 following a serious incident involving its subsidiary, Coles Mobile. Scammers identified and exploited a critical vulnerability in the company's third-party identity verification processes.
This security weakness enabled criminals to illegally gain control of at least four mobile phone accounts. Once in possession of these accounts, the fraudsters proceeded to access the victims' bank accounts, successfully stealing a total of $39,000.
NSW Government Tightens Protest Laws
In separate legislative news, the New South Wales government moved to increase protections for religious communities. A fresh bill was introduced to restrict protests outside places of worship.
The state’s attorney general addressed parliament, stating that the new legislation is designed to clarify the scope of police powers, giving law enforcement clearer authority to manage demonstrations near sensitive religious sites.
New Protections for Workers from Digital Surveillance
Meanwhile, a busy day is anticipated in Macquarie Street as the government prepares to introduce further new laws. This legislation aims to protect employees from dehumanising digital work systems.
Trade unions have long criticised these systems, which can include excessive surveillance and intrusive controls, such as monitoring and restricting essential breaks including toilet breaks. The new laws seek to establish boundaries for the use of such technology in the workplace.
