Cybercrime Squad detectives from NSW Police have charged a man with blackmail after investigating a data breach, alleging he threatened to share the personal details of over one million people.
On May 1, 2024, officers attached to the State Crime Command’s Cybercrime Squad were alerted to a website that had published the personal information of patrons who had signed in using their driver’s licences at specific premises across NSW.
Earlier this week, a cybersecurity incident involving a third-party IT provider commonly used by hospitality venues, including Clubs NSW venues, resulted in the loss of personal information held by the venues by guests, including some details from driver’s licenses.
Cybercrime Squad detectives say they worked closely with Federal and State agencies to contain the breach and commenced an investigation under the Strike Force Division.
On Thursday, May 2, 2024, detectives executed a search warrant in Sydney’s southwestern suburbs, where they arrested a 46-year-old man.
The man was taken to Fairfield Police Station and charged with demand with menaces intend obtain gain/cause loss. He was granted conditional bail to appear at Fairfield Local Court on June 12, 2024.
Cybercrime Squad Commander, Detective Acting Superintendent Gillian Lister, said this breach should act as a reminder for people to check their personal cyber security. “Now is the optimal time to make sure your cyber hygiene is good; you have strong passwords and are using two-factor authentication where possible,” Lister said.
