Optus has advised the leaked information may include current and former customers’ data, including names, dates of birth, phone numbers, email addresses, residential addresses and identification document numbers.

RACQ has not been provided with details of which members may have been impacted or the personal information which has been compromised.

This incident has not affected RACQ’s systems. We have security controls in place which aim to protect our members’ accounts. However, during this time, we encourage our members to have heightened awareness across their accounts, including looking out for unusual or fraudulent activity and any notifications which seem odd or suspicious.

If at any time you have any concerns about your privacy, please contact us on 13 1905, visit any RACQ branch, or email us at privacy@racq.com.au. RACQ will appropriately support and assist with your concerns where possible.

The Queensland Government has also announced Queenslanders impacted by the breach can apply for a new driver licence with new numbers free of charge. An Optus data breach notice or written notification from an enforcement authority is required, along with evidence of identity for the new licence.

Please remember:

• Scammers often pose as legitimate organisations like banks, telcos, insurance companies, health organisations or the government to gain your trust.
• Awareness is your best defence – talk to your loved ones about the latest scams so that everyone knows what to be on the lookout for.
• Don’t click on links in unexpected messages. Optus have advised any messages relating to this incident will not include any links.
• Use strong passwords for your accounts and don’t share them, install anti-virus software on your devices and keep it up to date, and limit what personal information you share about yourself online.
• Remember your bank will never ask you for your PIN or internet banking password. They will also never ask to gain remote access to your computer or device.

Watch out for the following signs:

• You receive an email, text or a phone call out of the blue for personal information.
• You receive an email or text asking you to ‘validate’ or ‘confirm’ your personal details by clicking on a link or opening an attachment. The message may be poorly written or contain grammatical errors.
• You receive an email or text asking you to pay an invoice or update payment information by clicking on a link or opening an attachment.
• There are unexpected pop-ups on your computer or mobile device asking if you want to allow software to run.
• You receive a friend request from someone you don’t know on social media.
• Your mailbox has been broken into.

For more information on how to stay safe from scams please visit ACSC, Scamwatch, Moneysmart and the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner.