With the holiday period fast approaching, it is important to stay alert and protect yourself from cyber scams during the festive season.
Recent large-scale data breaches have impacted millions of Australians and heightened the need to pay close attention to scams and to take steps to stay secure online.
What you can do:
- Create strong and unique passwords.
Avoid using the same password across multiple accounts and update your passwords regularly. The Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) recommends making your passwords at least 14 characters in length. Find out how to create strong passwords. - Turn on automatic updates.
Keep devices and apps up to date to ensure you have the latest security and bug fixes. Remember to restart your computer regularly to ensure the latest updates are installed. - Know how to spot a phishing email.
Think before you click! Phishing is one of the most common cyber attacks, and these scams often aim to steal your money or obtain personal information. Find out how to spot phishing scams. - Avoid using public WiFi.
Public WiFi connections are not secure and can pose a security risk. Avoid using public WiFi, especially when undertaking activities like online banking. - Turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA) for your accounts.
Many services allow you to enable MFA. This adds a second layer of security to your accounts, and can prevent hackers from accessing your accounts even if your login details have been stolen. Turn on MFA for online banking, social media, email and any other important accounts. - Think before you post online.
Be particularly careful with information that could compromise the security of you and your family, such as dates of birth, addresses, holiday plans and your children’s schools. - Be vigilant.
Cyber criminals are always looking for new ways to exploit users and obtain their data or money. We recommend visiting the Australian Government’s Stay Smart Online website for information on the latest scams, and tips on how to stay safe online.
How we help protect your data:
Fiducian is committed to protecting the privacy of your personal information. We use industry standard practices, procedures and technologies to protect your information from unauthorised access or disclosure.
Fiducian operates an information security risk management program to continually review and improve the IT security of our systems. Our information security program is developed and run in compliance with industry standards and is independently verified and tested to provide assurance that your personal information is protected.