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The State Government will give people affected by the Optus data breach new driving licences free of charge.

The Department of Transport and Main Roads said people advised by Optus that their identification documentation was compromised will be offered a new driver's licence and new driver's licence number.

The Department has set up a telephone hotline for people concerned about their driving licences.

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The Department website explains how to get a new licence or licence number.

Optus wrote to thousands of customers last week, warning them to be vigilant after personal information and identification details were stolen.

For about 2.8 million people, 100 points of identification was stolen, leaving them particularly vulnerable to identity theft.

The breach is being investigated by the Australian Federal Police, the Australian Signals Directorate, and overseas law enforcement agencies.

An online account has claimed to be responsible for the data breach, and initially demanded a ransom.

The demand has since been withdrawn, but some cybersecurity experts doubt the authenticity of the account or the claim of responsibility.

 

CRIME
COMMUNITY

Main points

  • Peeople affected by the Optus hack can change their driving licence details
  • New licences available free of charge
  • Conditions apply. Call 3097 3108 weekdays 8am-430pm
“In respectful acknowledgement of the significance of her reign, it is appropriate that the city formally commemorates her.
Bob Manning
Cairns Mayor