Optus data-sharing to help protect customers

Australian banks welcome the Federal Government’s decision to allow Optus to share government identity information compromised in the Optus data breach.

Banks will be able to request and use the information in their ongoing efforts to fight financial crime.

Since the Optus data breach became public, banks have focused on the potential for the data to be used to perpetuate frauds, scams and other illegal activities.

“The whole industry has worked closely with the Australian Government to make today’s regulations possible.”

ABA Chair & CEO Westpac, Peter King

The Federal Government’s action is a timely and valuable measure that will contribute to banks’ efforts.

Banks invest heavily in systems to protect customers and the financial system, including significant investment towards building resilience including against frauds and scams.

Chair of the Australian Banking Association and CEO of Westpac, Peter King said, “The whole industry has worked closely with the Australian Government to make today’s regulations possible.”

He added, “The data-sharing will help us to combat fraud and scams, keep customers safe, and limit the long-term risks presented by the Optus data breach.”

“It’s important that customers remain on the lookout for scammers in the wake of the Optus data breach,” he said.

Customers of Optus are encouraged to visit their website for latest updates and advice on replacing identification documents.

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