Banking online is an easy and convenient activity. However, criminals are eager to steal your online banking details so they can drain your accounts!
Scammers can use a variety of scams to do this, including using malicious code to exploit vulnerabilities in outdated or unpatched software to capture information.
Shopping online is another process that you need to be smart about. Be wary of websites that you have not visited before or that look suspicious or unprofessional. Scammers may have set them up to capture payments, harvest your personal information or deliver a virus or other malicious software to your computer.
Actions:
- Access your bank’s website by typing the address directly into your browser
- Keeping your computer up-to-date with anti-virus, anti-spyware and firewall software
- Use the security measures (such as two-factor authentication) recommended by your bank
- Always log out of the internet banking menu and closing your browser when you have completed a session
- Research for unknown retailers and their products and services
- Deal primarily with trusted and reliable online retailers
- Stay ahead of the scam game by regularly reviewing information on the latest scams through the Stay Smart Online website.
Download My Guide for further information on spotting a scam - My Guide, an Australian Government Initiative from Stay Smart Online is a personal security guide that features tips and techniques to help you stay secure when working, socialising or just browsing online. My Guide also provides a list of organisations that you can report scams, cyber crimes and identity theft.