Australians are urged to take simple steps to better protect themselves from common online threats and cybercrime during Cyber Security Awareness Month this October.
On Tuesday, the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) launched new personal security online guides to promote the 2021 theme, "Do your part. #BeCyberSmart".
The guide called Personal Cyber Security Series will help Australians understand the basics of cyber security and the steps they can take today to protect themselves online.
The critical first steps are turning on automatic software updates, activating multi-factor authentication, regularly backing up devices, using passphrases such as 'Idon'tlikepineappleonpizza', securing mobile devices, and watching out for cyber scams.
Assistant Minister for Defence Andrew Hastie attended the Technology Tea for Seniors at Falcon Library to outline the new Personal Cyber Security Series.
"The Australian Cyber Security Centre's latest Annual Cyber Threat Report shows that malicious cyber actors and criminals are becoming increasingly innovative and active in targeting Australians online," Mr Hastie said.
"Cybercriminals are constantly on the hunt for poorly-secured devices and accounts to exploit, including for major attacks such as identify theft, ransomware, and business email compromise.
"The good news is that Australians can stop many potential online attacks and keep hackers at bay by taking a few simple steps.
"Seniors are unfortunately a group that have been targeted heavily by cyber security attacks - a guide for seniors is also available to provide additional support to older Australians looking for easy ways to stay secure online."
The Personal Cyber Security Series, How to Use the Internet Securely - A Guide for Seniors, and other cyber security information and advice is available at cyber.gov.au.
If you have been a victim of cybercrime, please report it through ReportCyber.
