PROTECT YOURSELF AGAINST SCAMS!

Keep yourself informed about the latest scams, how you can identify them and what to do if you think you have been scammed.

If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is!

Scammers are getting smarter and taking advantage of new technology, new products or services and major events to create believable stories that will convince you to give them your money or personal details. Scams target people of all backgrounds, ages and income levels across Australia. 

Scams succeed because they look like the real thing and catch you off guard when you’re not expecting it.

Frontier Software data breach

On 14 November 2021, Frontier advised the South Australian Government that it had been the victim of a data breach. At that time Frontier publicly stated that no employee personal information had been compromised.

On 9 December 2021, contrary to Frontier’s previous statements, it was identified that significant personal information of South Australian Government employees had been stolen from Frontier’s systems.

A range of strategies have been put in place to help protect current and former public sector employees from identity risks.

Read more

Follow our tips below to protect yourself from scams

Be alert to the fact that scams exist

When dealing with uninvited contacts from people or businesses, whether it's over the phone, by mail, email, in person or on a social networking site, always consider the possibility that the approach may be a scam. Remember, if it looks too good to be true, it probably is.

Know who you're dealing with

If you've only ever met someone online or are unsure of the legitimacy of a business, take some time to do a bit more research. If a message or email comes from a friend and it seems unusual or out of character for them, contact your friend directly to check that it was really them that sent it.

Do not open suspicious links

These could be in texts, pop-up windows or click on links or attachments in emails. It is always better to just delete these but if you are unsure, verify the identity of the contact through an independent source such as a phone book or online search. Don't use the contact details provided in the message sent to you.

Don't allow remote access to your computer

Don't respond to phone calls about your computer asking for remote access – hang up – even if they mention a well-known company such as Telstra. Scammers will often ask you to turn on your computer to fix a problem or install a free upgrade, which is actually a virus which will give them your passwords and personal details.

Keep your personal details private and secure

Put a lock on your mailbox and shred your bills and other important documents before throwing them out. Keep your passwords and pin numbers in a safe place and be very careful about how much personal information you share on social media sites. Scammers can use your information and pictures to create a fake identity or to target you with a scam.​

Keep your mobile devices and computers secure

Always use password protection, don’t share access with others (including remotely), update security software and back up content. Protect your WiFi network with a password and avoid using public computers or WiFi hotspots to access online banking or provide personal information.

Choose your passwords carefully and review your security settings

Choose passwords that would be difficult for others to guess and update them regularly. Don’t use the same password for every account/profile, and don’t share your passwords with anyone. If you use social networking sites, such as Facebook, be careful who you connect with and learn how to use your privacy and security settings to ensure you stay safe.

Beware of any requests for your details or money

Never send money or give credit card details, online account details or copies of personal documents to anyone you don’t know or trust, and don't agree to transfer money or goods for someone else. Be wary of unusual payment requests as scammers will often ask you to use an unusual payment method, including preloaded debit cards or gift cards.

Be careful when shopping online for deals that seem too good to be true

Beware of offers that seem too good to be true, and always use an online shopping service that you know and trust. Think twice before using virtual currencies, they do not have the same protections as other transaction methods, which means you can’t get your money back once you send it. Learn more about online shopping scams on the ACCC's Scamwatch website.

What to do if you have been scammed

  • Contact people you know that may be affected
  • Contact your financial institution
  • Report scams to the authorities
  • Get help from Australian agencies
  • Report scams to Facebook services
  • Change your online passwords
  • Contact your local consumer protection agency
  • Contact a counselling or support service

Click here to Report a scam, or contact us today if you think you may have been scammed!

08 8227 2222

fscuhelpdesk@fscu.com.au

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