‘A matter of urgency’: Major energy retailer Origin hit by suspected hack

Origin Energy is investigating a potential cyber hack that may have compromised the data of some customers.

In a statement, the major energy provider said that its does not believe the data involved includes sensitive data such as customer credit cards or bank details.

“[The company] is currently investigating a potential security incident which may involve unauthorised access to some customers’ data,” Origin said in its statement to the ASX on Wednesday afternoon.

“We do not believe the impacted data includes customer credit card or bank details.

“We understand an incident like this may raise concerns and acknowledge the impact of this uncertainty on Origin customers.

“Our investigations into this incident are occurring as a matter of urgency, and Origin will provide further updates as appropriate.”

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According to Origin’s latest annual report, the retailer has about 4.7 million customers.

The company said it has notified the Australian Cybersecurity Centre (ACSC) and the Australian Federal Police (AFP) following the incident.

Nine.com.au has reached out to Origin, and Cybersecurity Minister Tony Burke for comment.

The Australian Signals Directorate declined to comment.

The AFP said it is aware of the incident and will comment at an appropriate time.

Origin is just one of several major Australian companies to be hit by a data breach in the last few years, following similar incidents at Optus, Qantas and Medibank.

The company’s share price fell steeply on Wednesday following news of the data breach.

The incident comes just days after more than 4500 Origin customers received a combined $270,000 payout after the energy retailer was accused of misleading customers on the cost of its plans.

Origin did not admit to breaches of Australian Consumer Law, but chosen to offer refunds during the investigation by the consumer watchdog.