SAFETY + BIZ ASSIST CASE STUDY: Workplace Blackmail and Extortion Threat
Trigger: Blackmail or Extortion (per SSA-L-02, Section 3.1)
1. INCIDENT
An executive assistant at a WA-based logistics company receives a series of anonymous emails containing sensitive information about internal company activities, with threats to leak them publicly unless a payment is made. The messages reference internal scheduling documents and private team chats, raising suspicion of an insider leak. The assistant escalates the emails to a senior executive, prompting the business to contact VUCA’s emergency hotline.
2. SAFETY ASSIST ACTIVATION
VUCA’s ERS crisis team immediately assesses the situation:
A case manager is appointed to the affected employee for psychosocial support.
Digital forensics are deployed to assess data compromise and source of breach.
A workplace risk review is conducted to identify any internal threat actors.
Affected employee is placed on modified duties to reduce distress.
Trauma counselling and police liaison are initiated for the individual.
Management is briefed on psychosocial WHS responsibilities under current legislation.
3. ESCALATION
Within 48 hours, a second extortion message is sent, this time naming the executive and threatening reputational damage if media are alerted. As panic grows internally, staff express concern over data privacy and fear being targeted. The executive team realises the incident could spiral into a public and legal crisis, threatening their brand and commercial partnerships.
4. STRATEGIC RESPONSE
Biz Assist activates alongside Safety Assist to manage the wider organisational risk:
ERS deploys crisis comms consultants to prepare internal and external media responses.
Stakeholder assessments and influence mapping are conducted to guide outreach strategy.
Business continuity advisors support executives with scenario planning and decision framing.
VUCA provides confidential guidance on WHS reporting obligations and reputation defence.
Governance advisors from Samphire Risk review internal systems for regulatory alignment.
ERS coordinates post-incident legal liaison and produces a full threat debrief for leadership.
5. OUTCOME
The organisation avoids a media blowout by responding transparently and early.
The extortion attempt is shut down with support from cyber security and police intervention.
No data is leaked, and stakeholder trust is preserved due to structured comms planning.
The employee remains supported and returns to work under monitored wellbeing protocols.
The executive team strengthens internal protocols and WHS policies, citing this as a learning opportunity.
Insurance partners and investors commend the business for swift and ethical leadership.