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A Victorian schoolteacher was applying for ‘heaps of rentals’ online – then someone accessed his bank account

Data and computer security | The Guardian

6 February 2026 at 15:00

Michael suspects personal information he submitted to rent application platforms was leaked online. And analysis shows millions of documents may also be at risk

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Michael* has spent the past two months trying to get his digital identity back.

The 47-year-old Victorian schoolteacher was in the process of moving to a new town and applying for rental properties online. Around this time – and unbeknown to him – his mobile phone number was transferred to someone else.

Real estate agents in Australia using apps that leave millions of lease documents at risk, digital researcher says

Data and computer security | The Guardian

By: Josh Taylor Technology reporter

1 February 2026 at 15:00

Exclusive: ‘This is a blatant and disturbing disregard for the law and for people’s security,’ digital rights advocate says

Australian platforms used by real estate agents to upload documentation for renters and landlords are leaving people’s personal information exposed in hyperlinks accessible online.

An analysis of seven rent platforms provided to Guardian Australia by a researcher, who wished to remain anonymous, revealed millions of leasing documents could be accessed by threat actors.