Hackers have attacked Toowoomba Friendlies Society Dispensary, gaining access to the not-for-profit organisation’s IT systems.
In a statement Chief Executive Officer Bayden Johnson said the organisation took steps to stop the intrusion as soon as it became aware of the problem.
“As soon as this incident was detected, we immediately worked to secure our systems and to establish a clear picture of what happened,’’ Mr Johnson said.
“We would like to assure our stakeholders that this incident was swiftly contained, our systems are secure, and we have confirmed appropriate security measures and sophisticated monitoring is in place to ensure we are aware of any developments.
Mr Johnson said Toowoomba Friendlies Society Dispensary had discovered the “unauthorised disclosure of some of our data online” and they were working to determine exactly what data had been stolen.
“As a community-owned, not-for-profit organisation that has proudly served the Toowoomba region for over 128 years, we take the protection of our data very seriously,’’ he said.
“We would like to assure our stakeholders that we are investigating this unauthorised data disclosure as a priority and will provide further updates as we learn more.
“We will also contact any individuals impacted as required to provide support and guidance in how to respond.”
Toowoomba Friendlies Society Dispensary is now working with the National Office of Cyber Security, the Australian Cyber Security Centre and Services Australia, National Disability Insurance Agency and Queensland Health in relation to the breach.
The organisation has also notified the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner about the breach.
“We are also working with experts from across the cyber industry to assist with our response,” Mr Johson said.
“We understand that this news will cause concern to our community, and we are committed to taking all appropriate action in response to this unlawful disclosure of our data by a cybercriminal group in order to best protect our staff, patients, and broader stakeholders.”
Toowoomba Friendlies Society Dispensary is a community-owned organisation which was set up in January 1, 1897, with an office at 194 Margaret Street. In 1982 the Pharmacy was moved to 8 Mylne Street, where it is currently located.
While its roots may be in the Toowoomba region, the organisation also services clients in northern New South Wales, Central West, Wide Bay-Burnett, Southwest, and Darling Downs.
The organisation prides itself with working closely with the community, the National Disability Insurance Agency, plan-managers, Public Trust, DVA and MASS, and other support organisations.
The hack came as the charity is preparing for its annual general meeting, set to be held on Monday, 27 October. The organisation has called for nominations for positions on its board of directors.