Thousands of residents from the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales are still living with the aftermath from an enormous data breach. This breach has exposed their personal data to unintended risks. This latest episode hits particularly hard for those who signed up for help after last year’s deadly floods in Kentucky. The leaked data set contains the first and last names and addresses of individuals. It contains email addresses, phone numbers, health insurance and other personally identifiable information.
The breach has led to grave questions concerning how private data is treated by those responsible for it. Harper Dalton-Earls stretches just one of those rubber bands. After her home was severely damaged by flooding, she sold it to be purchased through the Resilient Homes Program. During the public comment portion of the meeting, Dalton-Earls expressed her frustration over the situation. She stressed that the information presented to the Resilient Authority (RA) was personal.
Review of Processes Underway
Local MP Janelle Saffin has been proactive in addressing the crisis. She is asking for a complete investigation of the RA’s procedures. She has asked that the authority look into how such a breach would be possible to happen and return with the report of its findings.
“I would prefer [for the RA] to advise people sooner, and I’m also informed they couldn’t identify everybody, but I need to see the report first,” – Janelle Saffin
Saffin delved into issues of accountability and transparency as they pertain to personal data. That’s because this community deserves clear, unambiguous answers about how this breach happened. She’s dedicated to making sure that this important moment is approached thoughtfully and responsibly.
Impact on Flood Victims
This breach is more than just leaking personal information. It has produced significant discontentment among those affected. Dalton-Earls said she feared the sensitive information she provided to the RA. She underscored that this information should have included important specifics needed to deliver equitable aid.
“There’s just so much information that you need to give as part of that program, which is fair and reasonable to ensure it’s equitable. But at the same time, there is some really sensitive data on those systems that could be breached.” – Harper Dalton-Earls
Even after the floods of 2022, home buybacks have persisted. Victims such as Dalton-Earls are raising an alarm about how their data could be exploited. The RA is now faced with the challenge of restoring trust among the community while ensuring that such an incident does not recur.
A Community in Distress
Understandably, the community’s reaction has been one of shock and disappointment. Many residents feel vulnerable after learning that their private information has been compromised. Saffin’s deeply personal apology struck a chord when she stated,
“This is our community, my community, so I’m really sorry.” – Janelle Saffin
As investigations proceed, Saffin and Dalton-Earls remain hopeful. Finally, they want the RA to adopt more immediate corrective measures to safeguard personal information in the future.
