Dymocks warns customer records may be on dark web after possible data breach

Dymocks, a popular chain of bookshops, has issued a cautionary notice to its customers regarding a potential breach of their personal data, which may result in the unauthorized disclosure of their information on the hidden corners of the internet known as the dark web.

In a message sent to its members on Friday, the head of the bookstore, Mark Newman, notified them about the discovery of a possible breach that occurred two days ago.

"On [Wednesday], Dymocks became informed that certain customer records may have been accessed by an unauthorized party," he informed the customers.

According to Newman, a thorough inquiry was immediately initiated upon detection of the breach to determine what had occurred.

"Our inquiry is still ongoing and in its initial phases, but our cybersecurity specialists have discovered proof of conversations regarding our customer data being present on the dark web," he stated.

The company expressed regret and admitted uncertainty regarding the number of customers affected. They assured that they would provide updates to those impacted.

Customers were given notice that their email addresses, phone numbers, postal addresses, genders, and dates of birth may have been included in the compromised data. Information regarding their membership was also potentially disclosed.

A representative from Dymocks has stated that although the extent of the breach is still uncertain, early signs suggest that passwords and financial details have not been put at risk. This statement was made on the afternoon of Friday.

The corporation mentioned that it would inform the Australian Information Commissioner's Office after concluding its examination.