Safety tips
Cyber security is a risk for anyone sharing their personal information online. Treat your personal information with the same caution you would treat your mobile phone—protect it and never leave it in the open where someone can take it.
Protect your information
- Think before you fill out online forms or subscribe to emails
- Ask yourself if you really need to give certain information
Think about how your information could be compromised
- Check your online account and statements regularly to detect any signs of identity theft
- Be careful who you share your information with
Know what to do in the event of a scam
- Notify the relevant company if you:
- see suspicious activity on your account
- receive a suspicious email, SMS or phone call
- Change your password immediately
Tips to help protect yourself from scammers
- Be aware of offers that promise prize winnings—they may not be legitimate competitions or giveaways
- Type web addresses directly into your browser, navigate to the official app store to download apps, or contact the relevant organisation directly over the phone
- Regularly check your computer for viruses and spyware to ensure that your system is not being scanned for personal details without your knowledge
- If you received a suspicious message and are in doubt, delete it
- Use a strong password for your account and change it at least twice a year
For more information and resources on recognising, avoiding and reporting scams visit:
- Scamwatch is run by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). It provides information to consumers and small businesses about how to recognise, avoid and report scams.
- Stay Smart Online provides information on how to reduce the risk of cyber security threats such as software vulnerabilities, online scams, malicious activities and risky online behaviour.
