Stay Smart Online

Sometimes scams are obvious, sometimes they’re harder to spot – read these important tips so you can stay vigilant in protecting your personal and financial details

  • 25 May 2018

    Scams Awareness Week, 21-25 May 2018

    As part of National Scams Awareness Week (21 – 25 May 2018), we’re asking our members to stay smart online. Here are some important tips to help get you started.

    If you're wanting to stay safe and smart online and avoid any potential scams while browsing the internet or being called by someone you don't know, these tips can help.

    How can you stay safe from potential scams?

    If you’re contacted unexpectedly by someone who says they’re from a government agency or a trusted business, always consider the possibility that it may be a scam. When someone contacts you, claiming to be from either a government agency or a trusted business, try pausing and ask yourself: 'Is this real and legitimate?'

    Here are some important tips for you:

    • If the caller is threatening you, hang up and check whether their story is real. You can verify the identity of the contact through an independent source, such as a phone book or online search. Don’t use contact details provided by the caller or in the message they sent to you.
    • Never send money, give your bank account or credit card details, or other personal information to anyone you don’t trust.
    • Don’t open suspicious texts, pop-up windows or emails and don’t click or open any attachments—just delete them.
    • Never give anyone remote access to your computer if they’ve contacted you out of the blue—whether through a phone call, pop-up window or email.

    What should I do if have been scammed?

    If you think you’ve fallen victim to a scam, there are steps you can take to limit the damage and protect yourself from further loss:

    • If you’ve sent money or shared your banking or credit card details, contact your bank immediately.
    • If you’ve given your personal information to a scammer, visit IDCARE, Australia’s not-for-profit national identity and cyber support service.

    Where can I get more information?

    For more tips and information about these scams and where to get help, visit the Australian Cyber Security Centre.

    To report a scam, visit the Scamwatch website.

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