Published: 18 May 2015
Transcript
(SNEAKY SPY MUSIC)
VOICEOVER: Your personal data is made up of information such as your address, phone number, date of birth, bank details and passwords.
It's something you don't want falling into other people's hands.
But these days we share our personal data on a regular basis. So how can we protect it?
Well, for starters, get smarter with your data.
Keep your personal data secure. Make sure you shred any personal documents such as bills or bank statements before throwing them away.
Be careful sharing information about yourself on social media and other online forums.
Always make sure that the person you're dealing with is who they say they are.
Beware of anyone requesting your personal data or money whether over the phone, via email or online.
They may pretend to be a romantic interest, a family member in trouble or even a foreign prince. Odds are they're not.
Start taking a closer look at things. Scammers use legitimate-looking emails, letters and websites to trick you into handing over your personal data.
If you think something is a scam it probably is, so don't respond.
Delete the email, throw out the letter, shut the door or hang up.
If you're not sure if it's a scam, use the phone book or an online search to get the organisation's contact details and check with them.
Install security software on all your electronic devices and make sure it's up to date.
Choose your passwords carefully. they're the best defence against data theft so make sure they're strong and do not use the same password for every account, profile or Wi-Fi network.
Following these simple steps is the best way to keep your personal data safe.
For more information on how to get smarter with your data visit scamwatch.gov.au.