Training organisation falls victim to cyberattack, learners’ data at risk
Training organisation falls victim to cyberattack, learners’ data at risk | Insurance Business New Zealand
Cyber
Training organisation falls victim to cyberattack, learners’ data at risk
This is an example that cyber insurers and brokers may send to their clients
Cyber
By
Roxanne Libatique
Competenz, a New Zealand-based training organisation, has confirmed that it experienced a cyberattack in June, which resulted in unauthorised access to its IT systems and the theft of sensitive data – an example that cyber insurers and brokers may send to their clients to emphasise the importance of being protected against cyber risks.
Following the discovery of the breach, the organisation promptly notified its learners, staff, and relevant authorities.
Competenz cyberattack
According to Competenz, the attackers were able to access personal information related to current and former learners, employers, assessors, employees, and business partners associated with the organisation.
The compromised information includes names, contact details, dates of birth, identity documents (such as passports, birth certificates, driver’s licenses, and visas), and financial details, including bank account and card numbers.
Competenz’s cyberattack response
In response to the incident, Competenz said it took immediate steps to isolate the affected systems and worked to restore its IT operations swiftly to reduce disruption for its learners and stakeholders. It has since enhanced its cybersecurity measures to bolster its defence against future threats.
The organisation has been actively communicating with those potentially impacted by the breach, providing updates through its website and other channels. It has reached out to individuals whose data may have been compromised and offered guidance on how to protect their personal information.
Advice for affected Competenz clients
Anyone concerned about being affected by this incident is advised to visit the Competenz website or email [email protected] for further assistance.
The organisation recommends taking proactive steps, such as monitoring financial accounts, updating passwords, and reviewing credit reports for any signs of unauthorised activity.
Call for strengthened cybersecurity measures in New Zealand
As businesses continue to face cyber threats, the New Zealand government is being called to adopt stronger cybersecurity standards and centralised investments to combat these threats.
“We believe that security and resilience are fundamentally data problems,” he told TechDay.
He pointed out that while artificial intelligence (AI) could help bridge the cybersecurity skills gap by automating routine tasks, it also poses new risks by making it easier for cybercriminals to launch attacks.
“AI represents an opportunity to solve the biggest challenge, which is the skills shortage, but it also lowers the barrier for cybercriminals, requiring organisations to be constantly on the front foot to defend themselves,” Bates said.
Cybersecurity skill shortage in New Zealand
The cybersecurity skills shortage remains a significant challenge in both Australia and New Zealand, according to Bates.
He urges the New Zealand government to enhance its cybersecurity posture by promoting private-public partnerships and standardising practices to ensure consistent and effective defence mechanisms across the board.
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