Stay Safe Online: Simple Steps to Strengthen Your Cyber Security
Cybercrime is the break and enter of the 21st century. From scams and phishing emails to stolen passwords and compromised accounts, online crime can affect anyone.
The good news is that a few simple habits can go a long way towards protecting you, your family and your personal information online.
Of this total, 70% of incidents targeted homes rather than commercial locations, and two-thirds involved property being stolen.
Simple steps to stay safer online
Use strong, unique passwords
Use a strong, unique password for each of your important accounts and avoid using names, birthdays or other personal information. Where available, turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA) for an extra layer of protection.
Be careful with links and messages
Think before clicking on links or opening attachments, particularly if a message is unexpected or asks you to provide personal information or make a payment. If you receive a message from a business, contact them directly using a trusted phone number or website rather than responding to the message.
Keep your devices and accounts secure
Keep your devices, apps and smart home devices up to date, review your privacy settings and remove apps or connected devices you no longer use. Change default passwords on routers and smart devices and turn off features you don’t need.
Talk to your family about online safety
Make sure everyone in your household knows how to recognise suspicious messages and what to do if they click on a suspicious link or provide information to a scammer. If you have children, consider using parental controls on their devices and accounts.
Check Your Cyber Security
Our Cyber Security Checklist is designed to help you assess your online security habits and identify simple steps you can take to strengthen your cyber security.
The checklist is included in the National Secure Your Home Day Kit, along with practical resources to help you protect your home, family and online accounts.
Register for National Secure Your Home Day and receive a free home security assessment kit by email, including our Cyber Security Checklist.
The Cyber Security Checklist is available in several languages to help make these practical online tips accessible to more people in our communities. Currently available is: Arabic, Chinese (Simplified), and Hindi.
Register NowMore Information | Where To Report Cybercrime and Scams
If you have been a victim of cybercrime, report it at www.cyber.gov.au and contact IDCARE on 1800 595 160.
For more information on current scams or to report a scam, visit www.scamwatch.gov.au.