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A recent complaint has surfaced alleging that a prominent company neglected to implement adequate measures to safeguard sensitive information from being misused, interfered with, lost, or accessed without authorization. This highlights a growing concern about data protection in the digital age.
Genea, a major player in the fertility industry and one of Australia’s largest IVF clinics, is at the center of this issue. The clinic operates 19 centers across Australia and has a presence in Thailand. Genea provides a range of specialized services, including in vitro fertilization (IVF), genetic testing, as well as egg and sperm preservation, and comprehensive fertility assessments.
According to the Australian Signals Directorate, cyber incidents have seen an 11 percent increase from the previous year, with large organizations being the primary targets of such attacks. This upward trend underscores the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive data.
This complaint could potentially lead to compensation for patients affected by the data breach, opening the door for discussions on accountability and the protection of personal information in healthcare settings.
Principal lawyer for Phi Finney McDonald, Olivia McMillan, said hundreds of people had contacted them “distressed that their personal information had been accessed by unauthorised parties”.
“We deeply regret that personal information was accessed and published and sincerely apologise for any concern this incident may have caused.”
‘Like you’re being punished’
“This is some of the most sensitive information about me,” he said.
Isabel Lewis had her twin boys through IVF eight years ago. Source: Supplied
“I’m not doing it for the money, although money is fine and all, but if there are damages that are significantly painful, hopefully — and maybe I’m deluded — the business will change their practices so that they don’t have damages like that again.”
