The transformative impact the dawning of the digital era has had on our global societies and economies over the last forty years has been nothing short of monumental. Evolving at an unparalleled rate, the development of information technologies and the emergence of the internet has changed how we live. The way in which consumers shop, interact and communicate today is a world away from that of the 1970s, with modern technology making shopping easier, faster and more personal than ever before.
However, the shift to digital environments has also given rise to a range of sophisticated scams, with even those most comfortable with modern technology at risk of falling foul of online scam artists. Understanding how to navigate this online landscape safely is key – by following these simple but effective tips, you can make sure you don’t lose out when next online.
Pay Attention to Your Passwords
For many, having to think of a secure password for every new account they create can feel unnecessary, plus where do you store all these complex passwords for when you need to use them? In reality, reusing the same password over and over, particularly if it is weak is essentially like leaving your front door unlocked when you leave the house. Short or easy-to-guess passwords can be compromised in a matter of seconds by online hackers, giving them access to your personal details and accounts without breaking a sweat. This is the first line of defence against scammers so it is important to make sure you use a strong, unique password for each different online account you have.
Use password managers like Bitwarden and 1Password to create and safely store passwords for accounts while taking advantage of free government cyber tools to help strengthen your digital padlock.
Know How to Spot a Scam
Unfortunately, scams are all over the internet. Whether it’s receiving strange messages on social media or receiving unexpected tax returns from unknown email addresses, there are countless methods online scammers use to try and steal your information or finances. Being aware of the different types of scams out there and knowing how to spot them is essential to make sure you stay safe when online. Phishing, a method whereby scammers send consumers emails disguised as a legitimate source, is hugely common with thousands of attacks launched every day. Other online scams include romance, investment, identity theft and many more.
There are some basic things to look out for when assessing if something is a scam. They will often request your personal information straight away while providing little to no contact/personal details themselves. Addresses and websites used by scammers often look similar to the real thing but on closer inspection, it becomes obvious that they are impersonating legitimate sources. Finally, remember if what’s being offered feels too good to be true, then it probably is.
Stay Informed with Scamwatch
For Australian consumers, staying up-to-date on the latest scam tactics is crucial. Scamwatch, run by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), is a valuable resource that provides real-time information on current scams targeting Australians. Whether it’s phishing, identity theft, or fraudulent online shopping websites, Scamwatch offers practical tips on how to recognise scams and protect yourself. Always report suspicious activity to Scamwatch to help protect others and stay informed on how scammers operate in the digital landscape. Visit Scamwatch for more details and updates.
Only Use Safe and Secure Websites
When browsing the web, it can be easier than you think to land on an insecure or fraudulent webpage. These sites can either be specifically created to try and scam you, such as fake shopping websites which charge you for goods that you never receive, or they could be targeted by online scammers who use the site for phishing activities. It is therefore important to only use safe and secure websites when online. Look out for the padlock symbol by the URL and ensure the site address begins with https (as opposed to http), this confirms the legitimacy of the website. When looking for secure online platforms, particularly in the gaming industry, it’s crucial to ensure that the sites you engage with are licensed and reputable. Casino.org scours New Zealand to provide detailed reviews of licensed gaming platforms, helping consumers make informed and safe choices online. Moreover, sites like TrustPilot and other review sites can be a great help if you’re going to a new online shop for the first time, reading a review or checking a website’s trust score will never take long, and can save you a world of headache in the long run.
Two-factor Authentication (2FA) is Your Friend
While two-factor authentication techniques have been around for decades, they have only recently become widely used by the public. When you want to quickly log in to an account, the two-factor verification process can seem laborious, but this simple layer of security is a must-have for modern consumers. In the 2FA process, after entering your password, a one-time code will be sent to your personal phone number or email address, this must then be entered to allow access to an account. While some sites enforce 2FA, for many others it must be enabled by the user. Particularly useful for sensitive accounts such as banking and email, make sure to enable this technology to boost your security with next to no effort.
Personal Data is Valuable – Keep it Safe
It is often forgotten by many consumers when online just how valuable their personal data is. It is used by a whole host of institutions like banks, superannuation companies and social media sites to verify customers and confirm their identities. If your personal data is in the hands of the wrong people, you could be at risk of serious identity theft and financial fraud. In some circumstances, scammers can use your personal data to take out loans, apply for credit cards and even empty out savings accounts. In the digital age, consumers should treat their personal data like currency, appreciate the value it has, keep it safe and don’t flaunt it. Following the steps here is a great first step to keep your personal data secure, for more information check out this guide for protecting your personal information.
The consequences of having poor cybersecurity measures in place can range from small annoyances to potentially life-changing financial issues. Fortunately, making safe choices when online to avoid scams the best you can is relatively easy. The tips outlined here don’t require any technical knowledge or expertise, just an awareness of the dangers of the digital landscape. Take care when online, make sure to question things if they appear strange, and don’t rush when making decisions. Finally, remember the value of your online existence, and treat it as you would in the real world.
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