High-profile data breaches at telecommunications company Optus and health insurer Medibank Private have thrust ransomware attacks into the public eye, and given weight to the idea that Australia is facing a wave of such crime. Despite this, in 2021-22 the number of ransomware reports fell 10 per cent to 447, although it remained significantly higher than two years ago, ACSC said. The agency also noted that ransomware attacks were likely underreported “especially by victims who choose to pay a ransom”. Defence Minister Richard Marles said Australia has witnessed heightened, malicious activity which reflects the changing global landscape. “This has been…