Safer Internet day

Safer Internet Day will be celebrated in more than 100 countries on Tuesday 7 February 2017.

As part of Safer Internet Day, our members are reminded to watch out for common online scams - particularly suspicious messages on email, SMS, social media and mobile messaging apps.

Online messaging scams can target users via a range of devices, whether they're at home, at work, or in a public place. Common suspicious messages include competition links sent by SMS, video links on social media and emails from unknown contacts.

Tips for P&N members to stay safe include:
• If you receive a message that seems out of the ordinary, or doesn’t look right, get a second opinion from a friend before responding or opening a link.
• Talking through your concerns out loud with a friend or colleague can reassure you and help you to identify messages as fake.
• Online scams and malicious software aren’t always obvious. Always be careful about providing personal information online, or clicking on unexpected links sent to you via email, SMS or social media.
• Scammers often use trusted brands and logos to make their messages look like the real thing. If you’re not sure, talk through the suspicious message with a friend, or check its legitimacy by contacting the relevant business or organisation directly.
• Online scams are common – last year, Australians lost around $45 million to internet fraud.
• Help protect yourself from online scams by creating strong passwords, updating your anti-virus software, and frequently backing up your data.
• Remember P&N will never send an email or SMS including a link directing you to log in or requesting your personal or Internet Banking details.
• Contact P&N on 13 25 77 if you have any concerns.

For tips on how to identify a suspicious message, and how to protect yourself online, visit the Stay Smart Online and other useful websites:

www.staysmartonline.gov.au
www.scamwatch.gov.au
www.moneysmart.gov.au
www.scamnet.wa.gov.au