If you have ever booked an international flight, you know how much private data is involved and the high level of trust we put into digital booking systems. Unfortunately, a massive global cyberattack has just shaken up the travel industry, with Qantas and several other major international airlines caught in the crossfire.
Behind the Amadeus hack
The security incident did not actually start with the airlines themselves. Instead, it started with Spanish travel-tech giant Amadeus, which supplies core reservation software for airlines, hotels and car rental companies worldwide. Amadeus suffered a breach when hackers gained unauthorized access to one of its systems. Because so many carriers rely on this shared platform, the breach rippled across the globe.
Alongside Qantas, other major global carriers like Japan Airlines, ANA, Cathay Pacific, Korean Air and Asiana were dragged into the investigation. Qantas quickly confirmed that the issue was contained back in September, and local authorities, including the Australian Cyber Security Centre, have been officially notified.
Are your booking details safe?
The first thing news like this brings to mind is safety and the risk your lost data may pose. However, there is some reassuring news regarding financial safety concerning this particular security breach.
Amadeus reported that there is zero evidence showing payment records or sensitive financial data were exposed during the incident. Furthermore, Qantas confirmed that its own internal systems and databases remained completely secure and untouched throughout the ordeal.
Sources: news.com.au, 7News