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A cyber breach by unknown assailants has failed to extract any sensitive data from Australian shipbuilder Austal.
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Austal referred this matter to the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) and the Australian Federal Police, who have provided ongoing assistance and advice.
Austal Australia’s information systems and technology (IS&T) team has restored the security and integrity of the company’s data systems and have implemented, and continues to implement, additional security measures to prevent further breaches. A small number of stakeholders that were potentially directly impacted have been informed.
Austal's statement stressed, "The data breach has had no impact on Austal’s ongoing operations. Austal’s business in the United States is unaffected by this issue as the computer systems are not linked."
A joint statement from the Department of Defence, Home Affairs and the ACSC said, "Defence and the ACSC have provided cyber security assistance to Austal and are working with Austal to assess and mitigate harm."
Austal's statement explained, "No company wants to lose control of its information, but there is no evidence to date to suggest that information affecting national security nor the commercial operations of the company have been stolen: ship design drawings which may be distributed to customers and fabrication sub-contractors or suppliers are neither sensitive nor classified.
"Some staff email addresses and mobile phone numbers were accessed and these staff members have been informed accordingly. The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner will be involved as required."
The Commonwealth government has stated that it "will continue to deter and respond to cyber activity, and any impact it may have on Australia".
Austal is an Australian shipbuilder and global defence prime contractor that designs constructs and sustains some of the world’s most advanced commercial and defence vessels. Austal has designed, constructed and delivered more than 300 commercial and defence vessels for more than 100 operators in 54 countries worldwide.
Stephen Kuper
Steve has an extensive career across government, defence industry and advocacy, having previously worked for cabinet ministers at both Federal and State levels.
