NBN Co is reminding Australians to be extra vigilant about their online security, with a marked increase in predatory scammers attempting to steal personal details and commit fraud during the COVID-19 panic.
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Scammers are using our reliance on connectivity to mislead people into thinking their internet will be disconnected if they do not provide a "technician" with online access to their computer.
"We want to remind everyone to never give an unsolicited caller remote access to your computer or devices via the installation of programs such as Team Viewer or share any financial information or personal details with someone they don't know," NBN Co's Chief Security Officer, Darren Kane, said.
"It is also important to not click on the links or attachments in suspicious emails and never respond to unsolicited messages.
"Unfortunately, in times like this, phishing emails and scams soon follow as they try to take advantage of the disruption and uncertainty.
NBN will never call and ask to access your computer or advise that you're going to be disconnected.
"As we spend more time online, it is important we do not become complacent when it comes to online security as scammers prey on human emotions, like fear and uncertainty, to trick people."
Visit NBN Co's website at www.nbn.com.au/scamadvice for information on how to identify and avoid potential scammers or for advice if you suspect you have been scammed.
NBN will never call and ask to access your computer or advise that you're going to be disconnected.
NBN Co is a wholesaler, they do not sell phone or internet services directly to the public.
Top Tips for Protecting Against Scammers:
- Never give an unsolicited caller remote access to your computer or devices via the installation of programs, such as Team Viewer.
- NBN Co does not make automated calls, such as robocalls, to advise of disconnections or existing copper phone line services. Do not engage with these calls.
- Do not share your financial information (i.e. bank, credit card or gift card details) or personal details with an unsolicited caller or door knockers trying to seek payment.
- If in doubt, hang up and call your retail service provider on their official customer service centre number to check if the call is legitimate.
Tips for Working at Home Securely
- Protect your work laptop or devices by not leaving them unattended in unsecure areas.
- Do not allow family to use your work devices or passwords.
- Protect your home wireless network with a password and change the default administrator password onyour home router using the instruction guide for your router.
- Never reuse passwords - if one site is compromised then others are too. Consider a password manager ifyou're finding it complicated to keep track of your passwords.
- Devices should never be left where others can see them.
- Shred documents to dispose them securely. If you do not have access to a shredder, store the documents safely until you can return them to work and dispose of them in secure bins.
- Avoid using free Wi-Fi hotspots for work-related business. These are often unsecured and the data you transmit can be snooped on by others.
- If possible, enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) whenever possible. MFA uses your password, but also adds a second step, such as a code sent to your phone or an app that generates the code for you as an extra layer of security.
- Keep personal information safe by installing the latest software and updating app to protect your personal devices from the latest threats.
