Safeguarding against cyber scams.

In today's digital world, spotting a cyber scam is more important than ever. Scams are a common way for cybercriminals to hack into accounts, putting individuals, businesses, and institutions at risk. Staying alert to scam messages is key to protecting yourself online.

Scammers use all sorts of communication methods, email, text messages, phone calls, and social media, to trick people. Their main aim is to get you to hand over money or personal information. They often pretend to be someone you trust, using that familiarity to create a false sense of security.

To avoid falling victim to scams, it's important to take a two-step approach:

Step 1: Know the common scams.

Get familiar with different types of scams like dating scams, investment scams, phishing emails and texts, and invoice fraud. Always check the authenticity of any communication by using reliable sources like official websites, logging into your accounts directly, or calling established phone numbers. Avoid clicking on links or using contact details provided in suspicious messages. Instead, verify information through trusted channels.

Also, be aware of what reputable organisations will and won't ask for. This helps you quickly spot potential scams.

Step 2: Stay cautious with suspicious communications

If you're unsure about a message, don't click on links, open attachments, or respond to requests. Scammers often try to trick you into giving away personal information like bank details, passwords, or credit card numbers. They might also ask you to download files, software, or give them remote access to your device, which can further compromise your security.

If you suspect a scam, contact your financial institution immediately. They can take steps like closing your account or intercepting transactions to protect you from fraud. Additionally, report any cybercrime incidents to authorities like ReportCyber or the National Anti-Scam Centre - Scamwatch. This helps in the collective effort to combat online scams and keep Australia's digital landscape secure.