Qantas app glitch exposes customer data, airline investigating issue

Australian airlineQantas is investigating a data breach within its app. This issue allowed users to access the personal information of other customers, including names, frequent flyer details, and even boarding passes.

Qantas said it fixed the problem about three hours after it was discovered, and apologised to the customers. There was "no indication of a cyber security incident", Qantas added.

"Current investigations indicate that it was caused by a technology issue and may have been related to recent system changes," it said in a statement on Wednesday (May 1).

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Earlier, the airline urged those affected to please be aware of social media scams at this time.

One of the flyers, Josh Withers told ABC that another passenger's name and details appeared when he opened the app on Wednesday. It said, “Hi Sam' and I instantly noticed that Sam had a lot more Qantas points than I did, informed Josh.

Withers further added that every time he re-opened the portal, a new customer's details would appear including their frequent flyer points and flight schedule.

According to some passengers, they seemed to have the ability to cancel another passenger's upcoming flight to Europe.

The airline recommended the users log out and then log back into the app to try and fix the issue.

Following the data breach incident on the Qantas app, social media has erupted with criticism of the airline. Many users are posting claims that they have been affected by the issue.

Users on social media shared screenshots of the glitch and alleged phishing attempts. Some appeared to show accounts posing as Qantas customer care agents asking for people's personal information in order to assist them.

(With inputs from agencies)