How cyber savvy are you?

Cyber security is something we're all responsible for. Our quick guide walks you through the four essentials of cyber awareness, then tests your knowledge with a short quiz.

2 minute read

Four essential habits to keep you safer online 

Turn these habits into your regular cyber hygiene routine and you'll be well on your way to a safer online life: 

  1. Use a strong, unique password and a password manager: A longer, more complex password makes it harder for attackers to break into your accounts. A password manager means you only have to remember one password. 
  2. Enable multi‑factor authentication (also known as two-step verification): Add a second layer to your login to protect you even if your password is compromised.
  3. Recognise and report phishing scams: Scammers often impersonate trusted contacts or organisations to trick you into clicking links or sharing information.
  4. Keep your software updated: regular updates can help patch security vulnerabilities that attackers try to exploit.

Take our cyber awareness quiz

Test your knowledge across the four key areas. Choose the best answer for each question. You'll find correct answers at the bottom of the page (no peeking!)

Passwords  

Question:

Is it safe to use the same complex password for multiple accounts?

Choose the correct answer:

  1. It's a safe and convenient solution for all your logins
  2. It's risky. One breach could expose all your accounts. Use a password manager instead
  3. It's only safe for low-importance accounts
  4. It’s safe only if you use two‑step verification. 

Top tips for safer passwords

 

Multi-factor authentication

Question:

You've enabled multi-factor authentication (MFA) - also known as two-step verification. Do you still need to worry about account security? 

Choose the correct answer: 

  1. There's nothing to worry about because MFA is the ultimate security measure
  2. MFA still requires vigilance for potential vulnerabilities
  3. MFA is only necessary for financial or sensitive accounts
  4. MFA isn't necessary if you’re cautious online.

Why multi-factor authentication matters

 

Phishing

Question:

If you receive an email from a known contact, how can you be sure it's safe and free from malicious content?

Choose the correct answer:

  1. You can't. The email could be dangerous if the contact’s account is compromised
  2. The email is trustworthy because familiar sources are secure
  3. It's only safe if the email was expected
  4. It’s usually safe if the contact emails you often. 

Report a scam

 

Software updates

Question:

Will postponing software updates impact my digital security?

Choose the correct answer:

  1. No, because updates are mostly cosmetic and can be delayed
  2. Updates are only critical if you use your device for sensitive transactions (like banking)
  3. Yes. Delaying software updates can leave your system vulnerable to new threats
  4. Updates are unnecessary if you have reliable antivirus software.

Show me how to update software

 

How did you go?

Give yourself one point for each correct answer, then find your result:

  • 4 out of 4 - Cyber genius: Keep doing what you're doing and check our cyber hub regularly (link below) for the latest security tips.
  • 2-3 out of 4 - Getting there: Good start. A couple of the answers might have surprised you.
  • 0-1 out of 4 - Time for a refresh: Cyber security can be tricky. The good news is a few small changes, like our 4 key tips can make a big difference. 

We're all here for a safer online environment. It pays to stay informed and vigilant to help safeguard your digital life.

Tips to help improve your online security

Answers

Question

Is it safe to use the same complex password for multiple accounts?

 

Correct answer

2. It's risky. One breach could compromise all your accounts. Use a password manager instead

We strongly recommend using a unique password for each account.

Question

You've enabled multi-factor authentication (MFA) - also known as two-step verification. Do you still need to worry about account security? 

 

Correct answer 

2. MFA still requires vigilance for potential vulnerabilities

MFA (multi-factor authentication) is strong, but not 100% failsafe. At Telstra, we also call it two-factor verification. 

Question 

If you receive an email from a known contact, how can you be sure it's safe and free from malicious content?

 

Correct answer 

1. You can't. The email could be dangerous if the contact’s account is compromised

Always verify unexpected requests or links, even from your known contacts.

Question 

Will postponing software updates impact my digital security?

 

Correct answer 

3. Yes. Delays can leave your system vulnerable to new threats.

Regularly updating your software can help protect against the latest security risks.

For more information and resources, visit the Australian Government's official Cyber Awareness Month page. 

For another excellent source of cyber security and safety information, we recommend visiting The Office of the eSafety Commissioner. 

Stay protected from cyber threats

Join millions of Australians who trust Telstra to help keep them safe online. From scam alerts to mobile protection, we’re committed to helping you stay secure every time you connect.

Explore our Cyber Security Hub

Explore more on this topic

Other articles you might like

  • If you're worried you've been scammed

    If something feels unusual and you think you may have been scammed, pause and take a breath. Acting promptly can help limit the impact on your accounts, money and personal information.

    Article 3 minute read

  • Hello passkey, goodbye passwords

    Tired of remembering passwords? Passkeys offer a simpler, more secure way to sign in using your device’s built‑in security. Here’s how passkeys work, why they matter and how to start using them safely.