Stephen Rando has provided the following information on cyber security. Protecting our club and members from cyber security and scam threats is crucial to safeguard its operations, sensitive data, and reputation.      

In 2022 Aussie adults over 65 lost $120 million to scammers. We’re encouraging our members to stay aware and informed on how to safeguard themselves with the following information:

What are scams?

Scams are attempts by criminals to purposefully and maliciously mislead you in order to get your money and data. New types of scams surface regularly – they can come in many forms and reach you in many different ways.

Why is it important?

Everyone is a potential target. If it looks too good to be true, it probably is, so question offers and requests, particularly if you're being asked to do something different (e.g. pay into a new account or give over personal details/passwords in order to get the offer).

What can you do?

We're working every day to help keep you secure online, however it's also your responsibility to keep yourself secure. To help you, here are some suggestions of simple steps you can take to further improve your level of security.

• Use a family code word - Have a code word that only you and your family have discussed in person. Tell no one. If you receive a message claiming to be from a loved one, you could ask for the family code word to see if it’s legit.
• Pause and verify before acting on an SMS, email or phone request - If an email, call or SMS seems unusual, stop before acting (e.g. clicking on links, opening attachments or following any payment instructions).
• When in doubt, stop and call an official number – Be extra alert if you receive a phone call out of the blue about problems with your computer and remote access is requested, or you are asked to install software in order to access to your device remotely. Hang up – even if they mention a well-known company.
• Verify investment opportunities – with trusted and registered advisors and question "out of the blue" offers from someone you have only met online.  Remember, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is!

• Remember that your bank will never send you an email asking for your account details, financial details, or your log in details to your Phone, Mobile or Internet Banking.
• Attached is a copy of the ANZ 'Banking Securely' document.

External Resources

You can find further information through these external sources.

• Report wider concerns to Scamwatch
• Learn about the different types of scams, how to protect yourself from them and sign up for alerts from the ACCC’s Scamwatch and Stay Smart Online

Keeping your loved ones safe

You can play your part in helping your loved ones to be vigilant against scams by:

• Discussing the importance of being cyber safe and sharing tips on how they can protect themselves against scams.
• Sharing the latest stories and examples of scams in the news and via security alerts.
• Creating a screen saver that will remind them to be cyber safe while looking at the photos they love.

To create a personalised screen saver for your loved one, simply follow the below steps:

Step 1: Pick one of our scam tips and write it clearly on a sign for your loved one to see

Step 2: Take a photo of your child holding the sign in a portrait orientation

Step 3: Visit your loved one and send them the photo to install on their phone as a screen saver.

Share this with your friends