As the shopping frenzy of Black Friday and Cyber Monday approaches, it’s crucial to stay vigilant against the rise of cyber scams. Online shoppers are prime targets for cybercriminals who ramp up their efforts to deceive unsuspecting victims through phishing text messages. The Australian Federal Police (AFP) has issued a warning about the increased likelihood of such scams, urging everyone to “think before they click.”

Spotting Phishing Scams: Phishing scams involve fraudulent emails or text messages that appear to come from legitimate sources. These messages often contain malicious links that, when clicked, give scammers access to your personal information, including online banking passwords and credit card details. In the last financial year alone, Scamwatch data shows that over 114,000 phishing reports were made in Australia, resulting in more than $18 million in recorded thefts.

Key Tips to Stay Safe:

• • Scrutinise Messages: Be cautious of any message that creates a sense of urgency or offers deals that seem too good to be true.

• • Check Hyperlinks: Look for strange letters or symbols in hyperlinks and verify information by visiting official websites directly.

• • Avoid Clicking Links: If you’re unsure about a message, do not click on any links. Instead, independently verify the information.

AFP’s Efforts and Operation Firestorm: The AFP, under the leadership of Acting Commander Dean Chidgey, has launched Operation Firestorm to disrupt organised criminal networks targeting Australians. This initiative aims to protect online shoppers by sharing examples of legitimate and AI-generated text messages to help identify scams.

What to Do If You Fall Victim: If you suspect you’ve been targeted by a phishing scam or notice discrepancies in your bank account, contact your bank immediately, report the matter to the police, and use Report Cyber. For immediate threats to life or risk of harm, call 000. Support is also available through Lifeline (13 11 14) and Beyond Blue (1300 224 636).

Cybermate’s Role: At Cybermate, we are dedicated to enhancing cybersecurity awareness and helping individuals and organisations stay safe online. Our training modules provide essential tips and strategies to recognise and avoid cyber threats, including phishing scams. As part of our commitment to cybersecurity, we encourage everyone to stay informed and cautious during the shopping season.

For more information and cyber safety tips, check out our feature showreel: https://showreel.cybermate.com.au