Cyber security and scams

Stay cyber safe

Here are 10 tips to stay cyber safe.

1. Watch out for strange job offers. Beware of random job offers, especially if you did not apply for them or cannot verify the existence of the company or the person offering the job.
2. Beware of random calls. Ask yourself if the call could be fake. If you're not sure, say no, hang up or delete the number.
3. Close your bank accounts. Before leaving Australia permanently, you should close your bank accounts. Do not allow other people to use your accounts. If these accounts are used for illegal activities, you may be blamed for the crime being committed.
4. Ignore unknown text messages. Beware of emails, SMS, and social media text messages that say you have won competitions and prizes. If you click on the links or respond, you may fall for a scam. You may be charged at premium rates or find yourself signed up to a subscription service.
5. Be mindful with email links and attachments. Do not open the links and attachments from suspicious emails, especially if it's an email you did not subscribe to.
6. Tax File Numbers. The Australian Tax Office (ATO) does not suspend Tax File Numbers (TFN) and will never request for you to pay a fine or transfer money to protect your TFN. The ATO will never threaten you with immediate arrest or demand payment through unusual means.
7. Protect your personal details. Never give your personal details or bank details to someone you do not know. Australian authorities will never ask you to provide your financial details or personal documents over email or phone.
8. Take action if you have been a victim of fraud. Contact your bank, financial institution or service provider immediately if you think you have been the victim of fraud. Remember, when you report that you are a victim of fraud, your visa status will still be protected.
9. Be supportive. If your friend is the victim of fraud, you should be supportive and nonjudgemental. Encourage your friend to contact the university or their service provider.
10. Report the scam. Lastly, it is important to report the scam to ScamwatchExternal Link  and the relevant authority. See below section for more information.