Blocking spam and reporting scams is a good start, but there are other ways to protect yourself. Here are some practical tips to help you stay safe:
1. Protect Your Personal Information
The best way to defend against scams is by keeping your personal data secure. Use strong, unique passwords for each account and enable two-factor authentication wherever possible.
Avoid reusing passwords across different platforms. If one account is compromised, others could be at risk. Installing reputable security software can also help prevent malware and phishing attempts.
When disposing of documents that contain sensitive information, make sure to shred or destroy them. Keep your social media profiles private and regularly check your privacy settings to control who can see your posts and personal details.
2. Monitor Your Financial Activity
Make it a habit to review your bank and credit card statements. If you notice any unfamiliar transactions, report them to your financial institution immediately. Even small, unexplained charges can be a sign of fraud.
To stay ahead of potential threats, update your PINs and online banking passwords from time to time. Never share your banking details or one-time passwords with anyone, especially if the request comes from someone you don't know.
3. Verify Before You Trust
If someone contacts you with an investment opportunity or loan offer, take time to check their legitimacy. Look up the company, read reviews, and speak to someone you trust before making any financial decisions.
Scammers often impersonate well-known organisations to gain your trust. If something feels off, contact the company directly to confirm whether the offer is genuine.
4. Be Careful with Links
Scam messages often include links that lead to malicious websites or trigger harmful downloads. If you receive a link from someone you don't recognise, whether it's via email, SMS or social media, avoid clicking on it.
These links can compromise your device, steal personal data, or even affect your workplace if you're using a company device. Always verify the sender before interacting with any link.
5. Share Information Only with Trusted Sources
Scammers use manipulation to trick people into giving up personal or financial information. They might pretend to be from your bank and claim your account has been compromised.
If you receive a call like this, don't share any details. Instead, contact your bank using its official number to confirm whether the call was legitimate.
6. Take Your Time
Scammers often try to create a sense of urgency to pressure you into making quick decisions. They rely on catching you off guard and pushing you to act before you've had time to think.
If someone is being pushy or demanding immediate action, end the conversation and report it to Scamwatch. Staying calm and taking a moment to assess the situation can make all the difference.