Cyber Security Tips

Keeping our community safe online

As more of our daily activities move online, protecting personal information and staying cyber safe is increasingly important. Whether accessing Council services, using social media or managing online accounts, everyone can be affected by cyber threats such as scams, identity theft, malware and the impersonation of trusted organisations. By staying informed, recognising potential risks and following good cyber security practices, we can help protect ourselves and contribute to a safer, more resilient community.

Essential Cyber Security tips

  • Beware of scams: be on the lookout for phishing attempts in emails, texts, or phone calls that request personal information or direct you to suspicious websites. Always verify the source before taking any action.
  • Protect personal information: use strong, unique passwords for each of your online accounts and activate two-factor authentication where possible. Be cautious when sharing personal details online and only provide them on trusted sources, and secure sites.

How to protect yourself from scammers

  • Do not disclose credit card information, bank details, tax file numbers, or your date of birth unless you are sure the request is genuine.
  • Use caution when downloading attachments or clicking links in emails or text messages, as these may contain malware or viruses.
  • Always verify a sender's email address and check the URL of any website you visit before sharing any personal information.

Visit The Department of Home Affairs for further strategies and advice to help keep your information secure.

Identifying scams

Be cautious of online scams targeting you, such as phishing emails, social media interactions or fake requests for personal information that might appear to come from official sources or authorities. Below are things to be aware of:

  • You are not addressed personally by name
  • The message contains poor spelling and grammar or features jumbled words and symbols
  • It requests money or personal information
  • You are asked to open an attachment
  • You are directed to click a link and enter banking details or personal information
  • Payment is demanded in bitcoin or other unconventional methods.

You can also download the Little Black Book of Scams which provides detailed information on known scams.

Additionally, if you are impacted by a cyber incident, you can seek support from www.idcare.org or www.cyber.gov.au. 

Resources for our Community

  • Stay Safe Online: a government resource offering comprehensive advice and information on staying safe online
  • Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC): provides guidance on cyber threats and protective measures
  • Scamwatch: stay informed about the latest scams affecting Australians and learn how to protect yourself.
  • Cyber Health Check Tool: Organisations can strengthen their cyber security using the ASD Cyber Health Check Tool. It is a quick, free and anonymous online assessment designed to help small business and not-for profits. The assessment takes less than five minutes to complete and is tailored to your current level of cyber awareness.

 

Together we can build a cyber smart community.

 

 

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