Engaging online is part of work, school and everyday life but the online world can give criminals opportunities to steal money, information or identities.
On this page
Protect yourself from cybercrime and scams
It's important to be aware of the different types of cybercrime and scams currently happening, so you can better protect your personal and financial information.
Remember to:
- Update your devices regularly with the latest patches and updates.
- Choose strong passphrases for your accounts and keep them safe.
- Verify public Wi-Fi details or use a VPN when using public Wi-Fi.
- Protect your data by only giving the minimum required access permissions to apps and software.
- Double check online offers that sound too good to be true.
- Use a multi-factor or two-factor authentication app to login to your online accounts.
- Regularly review bank and credit card statements for suspicious activity.
Important information from the Australian Signal Directorate's (ASD) Australia Cyber Security Centre (ACSC):
- alert service keeps you up-to-date about the latest online threats
- step-by-step personal security guides - basic cyber security instructions for individuals and families covering specific software, applications and devices.
The ASD's ACSC website also provides general advice for:
- protecting yourself from scams
- protecting your family
- small businesses
- organisations and critical infrastructure
- business and government.
The National Anti-Scam Centre’s Scamwatch website has information on identifying and reporting scams, as well as information on how to help yourself or someone you know if you are a victim of a scam.
Online safety
eSafety is Australia's independent regulator for online safety. eSafety educates Australians about online safety risks, through:
- online safety resources and training for teachers, schools and communities
- advice for parents and carers to help kids stay safe online
- empowering women to take control online
- online safety advice and support for older Australians
- channels to report online harm.
Online scam help
Contact your bank
If you have sent money or personal banking details to a scammer or if someone has made an unauthorised transaction using your account, contact your bank immediately.
Recover your identity
If you think you have been the victim of identity theft, you can get help from IDCARE, a free national not-for-profit identity and cyber support service. Phone a counsellor on 1800 595 160 or fill out the get help online form. You can also check out their Learning Centre.
How to report
Cybercrime reporting is managed by the Australian Cyber Security Centre. ReportCyber is an online system that allows you to securely report cybercrime instances and online incidents that may have breached Australian law.
Report a cybercrime on the Australian Government's ReportCyber website or attend your local police station.
The National Anti-Scam Centre’s Scamwatch website also has an online reporting system that allows you to anonymously report scams you have experienced or on behalf of someone else.
Report a scam on the National Anti-Scam Centre’s Scamwatch website.
Related information
On this site
- Scams - Consumer rights section
- Tax time scams
