Fight fraud on your computer
26 October 2006
More than half of all adult Australians are now accessing the internet from home, but are putting themselves at risk unless they have up-to-date security software and take a prudent approach to staying safe online.
Leanne Vale, Fraud Prevention Manager for Abacus – Australian Mutuals, said the incidence of spam emails with Trojan software to invade computers is growing in all parts of Australia. Abacus is the industry association for credit unions and mutual building societies.
“Having no security software on your computer is the same as leaving your keys in the front door,” Ms Vale said. “And protecting yourself is as easy as bringing them inside.
“Our research has shown that people using the Internet for banking are increasingly aware of cyber-crime, but that many people still don’t have appropriate precautions to protect themselves and their financial details.
“Often spam is regarded as a nuisance, but it can be more than that. It can be a trap to get you to handover your personal banking details.”
Ms Vale said credit unions and mutual building societies have many safeguards in place to protect personal banking information, and will never ask for personal details like passwords or PIN over the internet.
“But education and smart internet use are key to protecting personal banking details,” Ms Vale said.
Through Abacus, credit unions and mutual building societies are supporting national E-Security Week, launched by Senator Helen Coonan, Minister for Communications, Information Technology and the Arts, in Sydney this week.
E-Security Week includes the launch of a new user-friendly website www.staysmartonline.gov.au, for Internet users. It has simple advice on how to secure computers, transact and interact safely online.
The website compliments a booklet produced by Abacus for all members of credit unions and mutual building societies to help members keep safe on the Internet. The booklet provides advice on the different types of fraud and steps to take to protect your savings.
NB: A copy of the Fraud Prevention handbook can be made available to interested media outlets for reproduction on request by calling the number below.
Media contact:
Julie Sheather - 0409 514 643; 02 8299 9024
