Evolution Mining
Summary
Evolution Mining, one of Australia's largest gold producers, became aware of a ransomware attack on 8 August 2024 that impacted its IT systems. The investigation determined the data breach primarily relates to Evolution's Northparkes Operations and files stored on Northparkes servers. The company engaged external cybersecurity experts and confirmed the attack was fully contained with no material impact anticipated on operations.
What Happened
On 8 August 2024, Evolution Mining detected a ransomware attack affecting its IT systems. The company immediately engaged external cybersecurity experts to assist with remediation and investigation efforts. Based on the investigation, the breach primarily (but not exclusively) related to files and data from Evolution's Northparkes Operations, a mining site in New South Wales. Despite impacting IT systems, the ransomware did not significantly disrupt mining operations.
Impact on Individuals
The breach exposed employee and operational data primarily from the Northparkes mining operations. Affected individuals may include employees, contractors, and business partners whose information was stored on Northparkes servers. Individuals should:
- Monitor for phishing emails targeting mining industry workers
- Be alert for scams exploiting knowledge of their employment at Evolution Mining
- Watch for business email compromise attempts
- Be cautious of calls or messages appearing to come from Evolution Mining
Evolution Mining established a dedicated email address ([email protected]) for potentially impacted individuals to reach out with questions or concerns.
Organisational Response
Evolution Mining engaged with federal and state government authorities including the Australian Cyber Security Centre, Australian Federal Police, and Office of the Australian Information Commissioner. The company contracted external cybersecurity specialists who confirmed the attack was fully contained. As of the disclosure, no major ransomware groups had claimed responsibility for the attack. Evolution Mining operates multiple gold mining sites across Australia and Canada, making it a significant target in the resources sector.