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Assistant Minister for Defence Andrew Hastie has urged parents to be vigilant while shopping online for school essentials this month, with back-to-school shopping opening up opportunities for cyber criminals to strike.
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The Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) leads the Australian government’s operational efforts to boost the nation’s cyber resilience and make Australia the most secure place to connect online.
New Assistant Minister for Defence Andrew Hastie said in their relentless efforts to steal money and data from Australians, cyber criminals will target busy families preparing for the 2021 school year.
“While parents are shopping online for back-to-school supplies, cyber criminals are shopping around for their next victim. The internet has revolutionised shopping, and cyber criminals continue to revolutionise their craft,” Assistant Minister Hastie explained.
The ACSC leads the Australian government’s operational efforts to boost the nation’s cyber resilience and make Australia the most secure place to connect online.
Head of the Australian Cyber Security Centre, Abigail Bradshaw CSC, encouraged Australians to access the ACSC’s updated guidance, published as part of the ongoing cyber security campaign.
Bradshaw said, “Australians must be alert to opportunistic cyber criminals who are seeking to exploit the expected surge in Australians purchasing products online for school. Our advice is designed to be quick to read and simple to apply and this updated guidance is designed to help Australians avoid the risks associated with shopping online.”
Assistant Minister Hastie added, “Parents can reduce the risk of becoming victims of cyber crime by taking steps such as only purchasing items from trusted sellers, being aware of fake retailers, and always using secure payment methods.”
For tips on how to strengthen your cyber defences, visit: cyber.gov.au.
Cyber crime can be reported through ReportCyber, which is managed by the ACSC on behalf of law enforcement agencies, providing a single online portal for individuals and businesses to report cyber incidents.
