Stay Scam Savvy

Protect yourself from phishing and scam attacks by following the tips from the video below.

In an increasingly connected world, it's essential to be able to identify the warning signs or "flags" that may indicate a scam. By recognising these red flags, you can protect yourself from falling victim to fraudulent schemes

  • Unsolicited Communication: Be cautious of unexpected messages or calls, especially from unknown sources, as they could be a scam in disguise.
  • Pressure and Urgency: Scammers often create a sense of urgency or demand immediate action. Take your time, evaluate the situation, and don't let pressure force you into impulsive decisions.
  • Requests for Personal or Financial Information: Stay vigilant against unsolicited requests for sensitive information, such as passwords or bank details. Legitimate organisations won't ask for such details through insecure channels like email or phone calls.
  • Unusual Payment Methods or Requests: Beware of scammers who insist on unconventional payment methods like wire transfers or prepaid cards. Stick to established and secure payment systems and be cautious when asked to deviate from standard practices.
  • Phishing Scams: In a phishing scam, you may receive an email or text message that appears to be from your bank, requesting you to update your account information urgently. The email may include a link to a fake website designed to look like the bank's official site. If you enter your login credentials or other personal details on the fake website, scammers can gain access to your account and potentially steal your funds or identity.
  • Romance Scams: A romance scam typically starts on a dating website or social media platform, where you may encounter someone who seems interested in building a romantic relationship. Over time, the scammer gains your trust and asks for financial assistance, citing emergencies or personal hardships. They may request money for travel expenses, medical bills, or investments. Once you send them money, they disappear, leaving you deceived and financially drained.
  • Investment and Financial Scams: Investment scams can take various forms. For example, you might receive a cold call from someone claiming to be an investment advisor offering a "guaranteed" high-return opportunity in a promising market. They may pressure you into making a quick decision and transferring funds to a specific account. Unfortunately, the investment doesn't exist, and the scammers vanish with your money.
  • Remote Access Scams: In a remote access scam, scammers may pose as technical support representatives from well-known companies like Microsoft or a reputable antivirus provider. They contact you and claim that your computer is infected with malware or experiencing technical issues. To "fix" the problem, they request remote access to your computer. Once granted, they can install malicious software or gain access to your personal information, potentially leading to financial loss or identity theft.
  • Be cautious with communication: Exercise caution when receiving unsolicited emails, text messages, or phone calls. Be wary of sharing personal or financial information unless you have verified the legitimacy of the sender. Remember, reputable organisations typically won't ask for sensitive information through insecure channels.
  • Verify website authenticity: Before providing any personal or financial information on a website, ensure it is secure and legitimate. Look for HTTPS encryption in the website URL and verify the website's trustworthiness by checking for reviews or conducting a quick online search.
  • Strengthen passwords and enable MFA: Use strong, unique passwords for each of your online accounts. Include a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Additionally, enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) whenever possible, as it adds an extra layer of security to your accounts.
  • Stay updated and use security software: Keep your operating system, web browsers, and security software up to date with the latest patches and updates. Regularly update your antivirus and anti-malware software to ensure optimal protection against emerging threats.
  • Be cautious of suspicious links and attachments: Avoid clicking on links or opening attachments in emails or messages from unknown sources. Scammers often use these methods to spread malware or direct you to fake websites. Instead, independently verify the source before accessing any links or downloading files.
  • Educate yourself and be skeptical: Stay informed about the latest cyber scam techniques and trends. Regularly educate yourself on common scams and their warning signs. Be skeptical of offers that seem too good to be true or requests for money or personal information from unknown individuals.
  • Protect your personal information: Be mindful of the information you share online. Avoid posting sensitive details on social media platforms and limit the personal information you provide on public profiles. The less information scammers have about you, the harder it is for them to target you.
  • Backup important data: Regularly back up your important files and data to an external hard drive or a secure cloud storage service. This ensures that even if you fall victim to a cyber scam or encounter ransomware, you can still access your important information.

Discovering that you've fallen victim to a scam can be distressing, but remember, you're not alone. By taking action and seeking support, you can protect yourself and help prevent others from falling victim to scams. Read on to learn what to do if you've been scammed, and find the resources that can guide you through the process.

  1. Report the Scam: Contact your local police station to file a report regarding the scam. Provide them with all the relevant details, including any evidence or communication related to the incident. This step helps law enforcement investigate the matter.
  2. Notify Your Financial Institution: Get in touch with your bank or credit card provider without delay. Inform them about the scam and any unauthorized transactions that have occurred. They will guide you through the necessary steps to protect your accounts and mitigate further financial damage.
  3. Report to Scamwatch: Visit the Scamwatch website or call the Scamwatch hotline at 1300 795 995. By reporting the scam to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) through Scamwatch, you contribute to ongoing investigations and help raise awareness to prevent others from falling victim. Scamwatch Website
  4. Contact Your Local Consumer Protection Agency: Reach out to your state or territory's consumer protection agency for assistance and support. They specialise in consumer rights and can provide guidance on dispute resolution and potential recourse options available to you.
  5. Seek Assistance from IDCARE: If your personal information has been compromised as a result of the scam, contact IDCARE, Australia's national identity and cyber support service. They offer expert advice on identity theft prevention and recovery, helping you navigate the process effectively. IDCARE Website
  6. Stay Informed: Stay up to date with the latest scams targeting Australians by regularly visiting the Scamwatch website. Educate yourself and your loved ones about common scam tactics, warning signs, and preventive measures. Knowledge is key in preventing future scams. Scamwatch Website