Millions Affected as Australia’s Qantas Airlines Hit by Cyber Attack; UK Government Eyes Potential Tax Hikes
In today’s Money blog from Sky News, we cover a range of developments impacting millions of consumers and investors alike—from a significant cyber attack on Australia’s national carrier to burgeoning discussions about possible tax increases in the UK later this year.
Cyber Attack Hits Qantas Airlines, Millions of Customers’ Data Compromised
Australia’s flagship airline, Qantas, has revealed it was targeted in a major cyber attack, affecting as many as six million customers. The breach occurred through a third-party customer service platform used by Qantas’ call centre. Hackers were able to steal sensitive data including customers’ names, email addresses, phone numbers, birth dates, and frequent flyer numbers.
Qantas clarified that critical data such as payment card information, bank details, passports, passwords, PINs, or login information were not stored on the compromised system and thus remain secure. The airline emphasized that its flight operations were not affected and continue to run normally.
Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson issued a formal apology to affected customers, acknowledging the concern this incident raises regarding data security. “We sincerely apologize to our customers and recognize the uncertainty this will cause. Our customers trust us with their personal information and we take that responsibility seriously,” Hudson said.
Those believing they may have been impacted can contact Qantas through dedicated helplines at 1800 971 541 or +61 2 8028 0534. Passengers with upcoming flights are advised that no immediate action is necessary.
UK Government Considers Various Tax Hikes as Economy Faces Pressure
Back in the UK, Prime Minister Keir Starmer declined to rule out tax increases during the upcoming autumn budget in response to questions posed at Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs). The conversation surfaced amid signs of strain on the Treasury and the ongoing political debate surrounding welfare reform.
Starmer was specifically asked about guarantees on taxes not rising post-welfare changes but refrained from committing, noting that no government official can promise future budgets before they are drafted. Despite welfare bill compromises that eased potential rebellions within his party, the chancellor showed emotional strain during the parliamentary debate, underscoring the government’s fiscal pressures.
Financial experts and political commentators are watching closely as several possible routes for tax increases have been identified by analysts. These could include:
- Increasing National Insurance Contributions: Raising the rate or adjusting thresholds.
- Raising Income Tax Rates: Particularly for higher earners.
- Adjusting Corporation Tax: Potentially reversing cuts or introducing new levies.
- Increasing VAT on Certain Goods or Services: Targeting sectors with relatively inelastic demand.
- Introducing or Enhancing Green Taxes: To address climate change objectives while raising revenue.
Consumers and businesses alike are advised to prepare for an evolving fiscal landscape that could impact disposable incomes and company profits in the months ahead.
Other Money News Highlights
- Petrol and diesel prices in the UK are rising again after recently touching a four-year low, with average unleaded petrol priced around 134p per litre.
- WhatsApp announces new features allowing businesses to send voice notes and make calls to customers, signaling increased AI integration for customer interactions.
- Families are advised on six key strategies to save money on their summer holidays, including choosing budget-friendly destinations and avoiding tourist hotspots.
- Greggs shares have experienced a steep drop, and debates continue about the value of Lifetime ISAs for personal finance planning.
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