Thinking you’re safe from online scams can be dangerous, especially as fraudsters continue to develop new ways to exploit people. According to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), Australians lost a shocking $3 billion to scams in 2022 alone. This shows that no one is immune, and vigilance is more important than ever.
Here’s how scams are changing and what you can do to safeguard yourself.
The Surge of SMS-Based Scams
Scammers increasingly use text messages to trick people, with schemes like the “Hi Mum” scam tricking many Australians into sending money, believing they are helping a loved one in need. The ACCC noted that SMS scams accounted for about 33% of all reported scams in 2022, making them the most common method for reaching potential victims. Scammers often pose as legitimate organizations, such as government agencies or banks, to gain trust and prompt immediate action.
How to Avoid Falling for SMS Scams:
- Be cautious with every SMS, even those appearing to be from known sources.
- Do not click on any links sent via text message; instead, visit the official website directly by typing the URL into your browser.
- Stay informed about security initiatives like the proposed SMS Sender ID register, which could help reduce spoofing by ensuring messages are from verified senders.
Older Australians: A Growing Target
Older Australians have become prime targets for scammers, often due to perceived vulnerabilities such as lower technological literacy or cognitive decline. In 2022, Australians aged 65 and older suffered losses totaling over $120 million due to scams, a significant increase compared to younger demographics. Scammers often target this age group with elaborate schemes involving fake investments, fraudulent tech support, or romance scams.
Tips for Older Adults to Stay Safe:
- Take time to think before acting on any unexpected calls or messages, especially if they create a sense of urgency.
- Get familiar with common scams and don’t be afraid to ask friends or family for advice.
- Refrain from downloading unknown software or sharing personal information unless you are certain of the source.
Taking Action Beyond Awareness
Being aware of scams is just the first step; proactive measures are necessary to ensure safety. Recent incidents of account hijacking, such as those affecting MyGov accounts, highlight the importance of secure online practices. Data breaches, such as those involving Optus and Medibank, have exposed personal details that scammers use to impersonate victims. Weak passwords and reusing the same password across multiple accounts make it easier for scammers to access sensitive information.
How to Protect Your Identity Online:
- Minimize sharing personal details publicly or online whenever possible.
- Use strong, unique passwords for every account and utilize a password manager to keep track of them.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on all accounts that offer it, using an authenticator app instead of SMS when available.
- Regularly review your account settings and monitor for unauthorized activity.
Conclusion
Online scams are more sophisticated than ever, making constant vigilance essential. Regularly updating your digital security practices and staying informed about the latest threats can help protect you from becoming a victim.
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