ACMA imposes a $1.5 million fine on Optus for public safety breaches, putting customers at risk.

Optus was slapped with a $1.5 million fine by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) for endangering customers. ACMA discovered “widespread breaches of public safety regulations” when Optus failed to input the details of nearly 200,000 customers into the Integrated Public Number Database (IPND) between January 2021 and September 2023. The IPND serves as a critical resource for emergency services, supplying location data and alerts to law enforcement, paramedics, and firefighters.

Optus neglected to upload this data through its contracted provider, Prvidr Pty Ltd, according to ACMA member Samantha Yorke.

“When emergency services encounter obstacles, it can pose severe risks to the safety of Australians,” Ms. Yorke emphasized. “Although no direct harm resulting from non-compliance has been reported, it is concerning that Optus left so many customers vulnerable for an extended period.

“Optus cannot absolve itself of responsibility, even if a third party is involved in the process.”