Cyber crime is on the rise, but so are the security measures to fight it. Governments, companies and individuals like you all have a role in creating a more secure online environment.
Young man with headphones and mobile phone.
Cyber security is something we all need to be aware of. In the past, it was focused on anti-virus software to stop pesky viruses from infecting your computer, but as we live more of our lives online and on our mobiles, it’s become a more complex topic to deal with.
Luckily, complex doesn’t have to mean difficult. We’ll help you understand the current cyber space a bit better by explaining a few common terms, how they could affect you and how you can improve your online safety.
While both aim to keep you safe online, cyber security protects your technology and data, while cyber safety protects you and your loved ones from online harm.
Cyber threats are anything that put your personal info or online safety at risk. Here are some of the most common threats.
Scam emails, calls or messages that try to persuade you into sharing personal details like passwords or bank info. They often look like they’re from a trusted brand and may include links to malicious websites or attachments that could harm your computer.
This is a general term for malicious software that hackers use to get unauthorised access to your computer and steal personal information. It’s often hidden in suspicious downloads, ads, popups or phishing emails and messages. Viruses and ransomware are common types of malware.
When any unauthorised person has access to your personal information, they can use it to impersonate you. They can create fake identity documents and take out loans or make expensive purchases under your name. It can happen through hacking or even by someone you know who has access to your accounts.
Criminals can exploit vulnerabilities in apps or websites to steal large amounts of private data. While you can’t always stop a data breach, you can protect yourself by:
When things go wrong, follow these tips to recover and get help:
Report scams to Scamwatch - Scams can be reported to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s Scamwatch.
Report to authorities - If you have been a victim of a cybercrime such as fraud, report it to ReportCyber.
Tell us about a scam or cyber attack
Kids are more connected than ever - with access to devices, apps and games that parents can struggle to keep up with.
Restricting time spent online is a good start but becomes more difficult when kids need to be connected for school and for socialising during periods of isolation or lockdown.
Kids are also more vulnerable to the dangers of being on online - it's important to keep communication open, set up parental controls and make sure that kids understand the basics of cyber safety.
Top 5 tips to keep kids safe online
Many of the measures recommended for consumers also apply to small businesses - using secure passwords, keeping devices and apps up to date and using anti-malware software.
To add an extra layer of security and prevent sensitive client information falling into the wrong hands, small businesses can sign up to Telstra Business Cyber Security Services, which includes access to 24/7 local support, expert advice and regular check-ups.
Telstra Enterprise security experts can help large organisations protect, detect and respond to threats to secure their operations now and into the future.
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