Distinctive Systems, a UK-based software provider for the transport industry, is currently managing a cyber attack first identified in mid-January. Despite claims from the INC Ransom group and various trackers, the company has verified that no personal data from its Australian operations was compromised during the breach.
Distinctive Systems is a major developer of management software tailored for the global bus and coach industry. While the company maintains a significant presence through offices in Australia and the United States, its primary headquarters are located in the United Kingdom. This international footprint became a point of confusion following a recent security breach involving their internal networks.
The security incident came to light publicly on 29 January when the INC Ransom hacking group posted the company’s details on their darknet leak site. To support their claims, the hackers published several internal documents and contracts stolen from the firm. Notably, the group mistakenly identified Distinctive Systems as an Australian entity, an error that was subsequently repeated by multiple automated ransomware tracking services.
The company first detected the unauthorized activity on 19 January 2026 and moved quickly to contain the threat. They enlisted the help of external cybersecurity specialists to conduct a thorough investigation and harden their digital infrastructure. Following these interventions, the company has expressed confidence that their current systems are secure and that the immediate threat has been neutralized.
In response to the data leak, Distinctive Systems has initiated all necessary reporting protocols required for such an event. They have remained in contact with relevant authorities and stakeholders to ensure transparency throughout the recovery process. The company is treating the matter with high priority to prevent any further unauthorized access to their proprietary information or client databases.
A spokesperson confirmed that technical forensic analysis has specifically focused on the geographical impact of the theft. The investigation found that the data breach did not extend to personal information related to their Australian service branch. Moving forward, the firm plans to implement additional security measures to further protect its global data assets from evolving cyber threats.
Source: Ransomware Group Claims Hack Of Tour Operator Software Firm In UK US And Australia
Really solid breakdown of the Distinctive Systems breach. The geographical confusion between UK headquarters and Australian operations is facinating, shows how quickly misinformation spreads even in threat intelligence circles. I worked with a transport software vendor last year who got hit similarily, and the rapid response timeline you described (detection to containment in 10 days) is actualy pretty impressive compared to industry averages.