Leading Aussie law firm vows to seek revenge against foreign hackers amid extortion threats READ MORE: Aussie hardware chain caught up in cyber hack By BRETT LACKEY FOR DAILY MAIL AUSTRALIA Published: 08:24 GMT, 14 March 2025 | Updated: 08:24 GMT, 14 March 2025 A major Australian law firm has revealed hackers broke into its computer network and took troves of potentially sensitive data. Brydens Lawyers, which has offices in Sydney and throughout regional NSW, said the attack happened last month and it has since re-secured its network and patched the security hole. 'Brydens Lawyers experienced a cyber incident in late February 2025, which resulted in unauthorised access to some data on its servers,' principal Lee Hagipantelis said. 'We are taking this breach very seriously and have reported the incident to the Australian Cyber Security Centre and the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner. 'We are working with specialist advisors to determine what information may be involved and the scale of the impact. 'Once our investigations are complete, we will work with the relevant parties to ensure that all appropriate steps are taken and will notify individuals as required to provide guide and support. 'We can confirm that security of our IT system has been restored.' Aussies might recognise the firm's logo from its NRL sponsorships of the Wests Tigers - of which Mr Hagipantelis was also chairman - and the NSW State of Origin side. Brydens Lawyers principal Lee Hagipantelis who also served as chairman of Wests Tigers Mr Hagipantelis pictured at last year's Dally M awards with 2016 Olympics modern pentathlon gold medal winner Chloe Esposito The firm said it had plugged the security hole and was reviewing what data was taken The firm also has partnerships with many other footy teams including the Newcastle Knight, Maitland Pickers and North Tamworth Bears. According to the Sydney Morning Herald, the data is being used by a foreign hacking group to extort a ransom from the firm which it has not paid. Just last month, Australia imposed financial and travel sanctions on ZServers and five of its Russian employees for their roles in providing infrastructure to host and disseminate data stolen from Medibank Private in 2022. The government said sanctions are the result of close collaboration between Australian Signals Directorate, Commonwealth agencies and key international partners to 'identify and disrupt cybercriminals who prey on Australia'. 'Malicious cyber actors continue to target Australian governments, critical infrastructure business and individuals.,' the ASD said in a statement. 'ASD discourages businesses and individuals from paying ransoms or extortion claims to cybercriminals. 'Australian businesses can help protect themselves from ransomware by updating devices, regularly backing up files and ensure staff know to never visit suspicious websites, open emails from unknown sources or click on suspicious links.' Share or comment on this article: Leading Aussie law firm vows to seek revenge against foreign hackers amid extortion threats Add comment