Sydney, 31 December 2025 — A British cybersecurity specialist Jacob Riggs has been granted one of Australia’s most selective visas after responsibly identifying a vulnerability on a government foreign affairs website, Australian officials have confirmed. The British cybersecurity specialist was later granted Australia’s highly selective National Innovation Visa. The man, a UK-based cyber expert whose identity has not been publicly disclosed for security reasons, discovered the flaw on a website linked to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) while his visa application was unde

Sydney, 31 December 2025 — A British cybersecurity specialist Jacob Riggs has been granted one of Australia’s most selective visas after responsibly identifying a vulnerability on a government foreign affairs website, Australian officials have confirmed.

The British cybersecurity specialist was later granted Australia’s highly selective National Innovation Visa.

The man, a UK-based cyber expert whose identity has not been publicly disclosed for security reasons, discovered the flaw on a website linked to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) while his visa application was under review. Authorities said the issue was reported through official channels and fixed without any data loss or system damage.

  He was later approved for the National Innovation Visa (subclass 858), a highly competitive programme designed to attract individuals with exceptional skills in fields such as digital technology, research and innovation. Officials stressed that the visa was granted based on demonstrated expertise and responsible conduct, not illegal access. DFAT declined to provide technical details of the vulnerability, citing national security concerns, but confirmed that the matter had been resolved promptly. The department also emphasised that unauthorised or malicious hacking of government systems remains a criminal offence under Australian law.

Cybersecurity analysts say the case is an example of ethical hacking, a practice in which specialists identify weaknesses and disclose them so organisations can strengthen their defences. Many governments, including Australia, operate vulnerability disclosure frameworks to manage such reports safely. The incident has sparked debate about the fine line between hacking and security research, while also highlighting the rising global demand for cybersecurity talent. As cyber threats grow in scale and sophistication, experts say countries are increasingly treating digital expertise as both a national security priority and a key factor in attracting global talent.

A little more informed. A little more connected.