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Cyber safety guidelines
Cybercrime is an issue which affects many Queenslanders. During your time here, it’s important to be careful and aware of cyber safety, cybercrimes and scams. There are some simple steps you can take to protect yourself from cybercrime and how to report a cybercrime to the Queensland Police.
- Create strong passwords and store them safely
- Turn on and use multi-factor authentication (MFA)
- Update your devices
- Back up important information
- Stay alert to scams
Cybercrime and scams
The number of scams in Queensland, and around the world, continues to grow. It’s important to learn how to stay safe from scams, so keep reading to learn the signs of a scam and how to protect yourself online.
What is a scam?
A scam tricks you into giving money or personal information, often through text messages, calls, emails, or social media. Scammers may pretend to be people from government agencies, banks, rental agencies, or companies, and may use personal details they know about you to gain your trust.
Why protect yourself?
Scams can lead to financial losses and serious issues like identity theft, where scammers misuse your identity to access your accounts, open new ones, or take out loans. Learning to protect yourself is crucial for safeguarding your personal information and finances.
How to protect yourself from being scammed
- Never automatically click on links
- Never automatically respond to messages
- Don’t believe everything you read
- Verify the identity of the person you’re speaking to
What to do if you get scammed
- Act immediately
- Get support
- Report the scam to services run by the Australian Government
Get help
If you’re facing online harm such as a scam, identity theft, or online abuse, remember that you don’t have to handle it by yourself. There are various services available to assist you: