Stay Safe Online

Know how to better protect yourself and your family, online

Being online is part of our daily lives as we work, bank, shop and stay connected with friends and family. Connectivity is making our lives easier, but there are risks. Protecting yourself online is simple, so don't wait until you become the victim of cyber crime.

 

Protect yourself from Phishing Scams

Phishing scammers may contact you by email, text, or phone, posing as legitimate businesses. They often imitate businesses you trust and use regularly, such as your bank, internet or telecommunications provider. Whichever approach is used, the scammer’s goal is the same – to obtain your personal information and commit fraud against you.

Phishing emails often use the same branding, logos, and format of communication as one of your trusted providers. A phishing email might state there is a problem with your bank account, such as a security breach, and ask you to click on a link to provide your personal details, which can later be used to commit identity fraud, or steal money from your bank account. A common approach used by text scammers is sending out customer surveys that offer a prize for participating, in order to obtain your personal information to commit fraud at a later date.

 

Stop and think. Is this for real?

If you receive a suspicious call, email or text: Stop and think. Is this for real?

Never click on the links or attachments in emails and text messages that ask you to login or verify your password. They could easily be phishing messages sent by scammers. Instead, go to the legitimate website and log in from there.

 

Top Tips for staying safe online:

Improve your security with these tips:

• Password protect all your devices. Use strong alpha-numeric passwords and include upper and lower case letters.

• Change your passwords regularly.

• Secure your computer and devices with firewalls, anti-virus software and up to date operating software.

• Only use secure WiFi connections.

• Protect your WiFi with a strong password and encryption settings.

• Be aware of scams and don't click on unexpected attachments or links you don't recognise.

• Limit the amount of identity information you post online.

• Check your privacy settings for social media accounts.

• Regularly back up your data.

• Reporting a cyber crime is like reporting any other offense. If you believe you have been a victim of criminal activity online you can report it to the Cook Islands Police on 22 499.