How to Protect Yourself from Scams
Scams can come in many forms, including fake emails, phone calls, and text messages. Here is how you can protect yourself from common scams:
1. Identify Common Phone and Text Scams
- Types of Scams:
- Webcam Footage Blackmail: Claims to have incriminating footage, and demands money.
- Phishing: Pretends to be a legitimate company to steal your information.
- Immediate Payment Requests: Poses as a bank, government agency, or charity.
- Identity Theft: Asks for personal details to steal your identity.
- Remote Access Scams: Requests remote access to your computer.
- Dangerous Links: Sends links that can install malware.
- Fake Prize Alerts: Claims you have won a prize and asks for personal details.
- Caller ID Spoofing: Makes it look like the call or text is from a trusted source
2. What to Do After Recognising a Scam
- Do Not Respond.
- Do Not Click on Links or Attachments.
- Report the Scam To Your Email Provider: Mark it as spam or phishing.
- Report the Scam To Authorities: Report to ScamWatch.
- Block the Scammer.
- Delete the email/text message.
- Do not pay any money.
- Hang up the call.
- Do not download any suspicious apps.
- Do not give any personal information.
- Change your email password.
3. If You Have Been Scammed
- Contact Your Bank Immediately: report the fraud and request a stop on transactions.
- Change Passwords: Update all passwords for online and bank accounts, especially if you use the same password on multiple sites.
- Monitor Your Accounts: Keep an eye on bank statements and credit reports for unusual activity.
- Report to Authorities:
- ScamWatch: Report the incident to ScamWatch (www.scamwatch.gov.au).
- Police: If you’ve been threatened or had significant losses.
- Seek Professional Advice to secure your devices
4. Protect Personal Information
- Only share personal details with trusted contacts.
- Avoid giving out information over unsolicited calls or texts.
- Change default PINs and passwords on new devices.
- Choose strong, unique passwords for accounts and devices.
- Lock your mobile phone with a secure PIN and enable auto-lock.
5. Additional Resources
- Learn More and Report Scams:
- ScamWatch: www.scamwatch.gov.au
- Cyber Security: www.cyber.gov.au
- Communications FAQs: https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/media-technology-communications/phone/unwanted-communications
- Little Black Book of Scams: www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams
Remember
Always be cautious with your personal information. Verify any suspicious communications through official channels and take proactive steps to secure your devices and accounts.
If you are not sure about a transaction, call, or message, consult with friends, family, or the appropriate support teams. Stay vigilant and informed to protect yourself from scams.