A new Australian victim has been added to the 8Base ransomeware gang’s leak site with the news that CHRG, previously the Castle Hill RSL Group, had been attacked last month.
8Base claimed it had gained access to personal data, accounting documentation and a large amount of personal information, along with other data.
However, while the site claimed the data would be leaked on 6 March, that date has passed with no leak.
CHRG immediately informed The Australian Cyber Security Centre and engaged independent cyber security experts to respond to the threat.
While a range of measures have been taken on their website as a response, an advisory notice was published on CHRG’s website warning visitors of the incident.
A CHRG spokesperson said, “Our ongoing forensic investigations have not identified any indications that our sign-in credentials, membership database, or point-of-sale systems were impacted by the incident”.
CHRG, which boasts over 80,000 members across a number of clubs including Club Parramatta, Castle Hill Fitness & Aquatic Centre, Lynwood Golf & Country Club, and Castle Hill Bowling Club, clarified that for visitors, while they are legally required to check guests’ photo identification, these details are not saved in their system.
While the group does collect membership data, this is to ensure members receive the services and benefits of membership.
CHRG has issued a statement advising it is working closely with regulators and is committed to working quickly to resolve the possible breach. The group has apologised for concerns arising from this issue, pointing out that no-one has immunity from cyber attacks.
CHRG cannot share more specific information at this time as they do not wish to impact the ongoing investigation, but will contact any impacted members.
In much brighter news for the group, a $340 million development application for a luxury lifestyle community has recently been unanimously approved by the Sydney Central Planning Committee and Hills Shire Council.
The works will take place at Castle Hill RSL, where a new complex will address the needs of living options for over 55s.
The site is strategically significant, being close to local infrastructure such as public transport, medical and financial services, shopping and social and leisure activities.
The development will include buildings up to six storeys, housing 249 larger than average one, two and three bedroom units and penthouses. Plans also include 17 serviced care apartments and a residential aged care facility with 19 beds.
While the RSL’s current carpark will remain, another 700 spaces will be made available, and a pedestrian through-site link will be created from Britannia Road to Castle Street.
There will also be an additional 250 trees planted site-wide.
David O’Neill, CHRG’s Group Chief Executive Officer, stated: “We are both pleased and excited to receive a unanimous approval as it reinforces the care and consideration that has been taken to understand the needs of our local community and deliver something that exceeds their needs and expectations.
“With around 20,000 Members aged 55+, our goal is to deliver something that meets the needs of the Members, while meeting the needs of the broader community. We look forward to accommodating more health and wellness services and creating a sense of tranquillity and enhanced community connection, as well as additional underground parking options.”
