Hackers breach TPG Telecoms Email Host in an attempt to steal client data

TPG Telecom claimed that hackers were looking for customers’ financial and cryptocurrency information.

TPG Telecom (Australia’s 2nd-largest telecommunications provider) announced on 14 December 2022 that a compromised email hosting service was used by 15,000 iiNet business customers and Westnet business clients.

Notable is the fact that iiNet, an Australian internet service provider (ISP), was purchased by TPG in September 2015. Westnet, a telecom company owned by TPG is also mentioned.

TPG’s security adviser, informed TPG that evidence suggested unauthorized access at a Hosted Exchange Service.

According to the company, hackers were looking for customers’ financial and cryptocurrency information. The investigation continues, but no further details have been provided.

TPG Telecom issued a (PDF) stating that it had “sincerely remitted our sincere apologies to all affected iiNet or Westnet Hosted Exchange customers.” TPG Telecom continues to examine the matter and advise customers on how to protect themselves.

TPG said that they have taken measures to block the hacker’s access. The incident did not affect any personal iiNet products or home computers.

This announcement comes days after TPG’s largest rival Telstra customer details for 130,000 clients due to “misalignment in databases”.

Notable is the fact that . They gained access to thousands of Telstra’s SIM cards.

Australian businesses have become an attractive target for threats actors in recent attacks. These initial attacks were on Singtel’s Optus, as well as a Singtel subsidiary. This made it clear that Australian businesses did not have a proper security system.

The country proposed harsher sanctions for businesses that fail to protect customers’ data after a torrent of cyberattacks against Australian companies.

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