How to protect yourself from scams and identity theft

Scamwatch has urged businesses and consumers to be on the lookout for increased scam activity and to take steps to protect themselves.

Criminals use data breaches, such as the 2022 Optus data breach, to target people through phishing emails, phone calls, and SMS or social media messages, according to Scamwatch.

To protect yourself, don’t click any links or open any attachments; check the login activity for your accounts and sign out of unrecognised devices; and check your social media accounts, update passwords and do privacy and security checks.

Never provide anyone with your personal or banking information or grant remote access to your device.

Also, be wary of new communications and don’t just accept what you’re being told. Take your time and independently contact the purported organisation using contact details you have sourced yourself, for example through searching for the business or agency online.

What to do if your data gets exposed

Scamwatch has said businesses and consumers should take a range of preventive measures when their information gets exposed in a data breach:

• Secure your bank accounts.
• Stop people taking out loans in your name by getting a credit ban.
• Contact your superannuation fund.
• Consider replacing your passport, driver licence and Medicare card.
• Tell your telco and internet providers about the breach and request additional security on your account.
• Do the same with buy-now-pay-later services you use.
• Change your online banking and email account passwords.
• Change the email address you use for important accounts.

If you've been a victim of cybercrime or identity fraud, you should contact your bank or financial institution immediately, according to Scamwatch.

You can report the incident to the police via Reportcyber and contact IDCARE, which is a free service that can help people recover from a cybercrime or stolen identity.