Stay cyber safe at home: think like a corporate

Scams like phishing, hacking and identity theft are big business, with Australians losing around $14.5 million in 2020 alone.

At Optus, our employees play an important role in our cyber safety. Like other large organisations, we provide information, training, and even regular exercises to ensure our people know what to do – and what not to do – to keep their work computers secure.

Most of what our people learn is also applicable to keeping their computers and network secure at home, too. So, I thought I might share some tips that everyone should know to help protect you and your family from some of the most common cyber threats. 

While most scams are conducted over the phone, fraudsters also use email, text messages, the internet, and social networking sites. Typically, the first step involves ‘hooking’ a potential victim with phishing, when the scammer impersonates a real organisation or person, perhaps even someone you know on Facebook whose account has been hacked.

The scammer may try to have you click on a link which installs software on your computer or phone that can extract information, like your bank account details or passwords. Sometimes, this may be in an attachment in the email that the scammer wants you to open.

Be vigilant of all emails and electronic messages, but be particularly weary when you see:

Spelling or typing mistakes

Overly complicated or technical language

Words that incite a sense of urgency

Reputable companies like Optus will never ask you for your username, password or personal details via email. If you receive a suspicious SMS or email a sender claiming to be Optus, please forward it to abuse@optusnet.com.au.

The Australian Government’s Scam Watch has a wealth of information about scams, including ones known to be circulating like COVID-19 related scams. You can also report a scam there.

Our Optus IT team is passionate about technology and security. If you are interested in joining us at a company with a ‘digital everywhere approach’ check out our open roles here.