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Australian Human Rights Commission Data Breach Exposes Sensitive Documents Online

The AHRC is investigating the exposure of 670 confidential documents, some of which were indexed by search engines, affecting multiple human rights initiatives.

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Australian Human Rights Commission Commissioner Lorraine Finlay. (AAP Image/Mick Tsikas)

Overview

  • The Australian Human Rights Commission confirmed a data breach affecting 670 documents submitted via online forms between March 24 and April 10, 2025.
  • Approximately 100 documents containing sensitive personal information were accessed and indexed by search engines like Google and Bing from April 3 to May 10.
  • The breach also impacted submissions to various AHRC projects, including the Speaking from Experience project, Human Rights Awards nominations, and the National Anti-Racism Framework consultation.
  • The AHRC has disabled all online forms, requested the removal of indexed files from search engines, and established a taskforce to investigate and prevent further incidents.
  • The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner has been notified, and affected individuals are being contacted and offered support, including mental health resources.