Staying Safe from Phishing and Identity Theft

Recent data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics reveals a concerning trend: over two million Australians experienced card fraud, and 675,000 responded to scams in the 2023–24 financial year. Identity theft and phishing scams are among the most common and damaging forms of cybercrime, with rural and regional communities often targeted due to limited access to cybersecurity resources.

• Phishing is when scammers impersonate trusted organisations—like banks, government departments, or even your local co-op—to trick you into revealing personal or financial information.
• Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal details (like your name, address, or bank account) without your permission, often to commit fraud or access your finances.

These attacks often come via email, SMS, or even phone calls, and they’re becoming harder to spot.

The agricultural sector is increasingly digital—using online banking, supply chain platforms, and smart farming tools. This digital shift, while beneficial, also opens new doors for cybercriminals. Farmers and agribusinesses may be targeted because:

• They often work in isolated areas with limited tech support.
• They may use shared or outdated devices.
• They’re busy and may not have time to scrutinise every message or email.

Here are some practical steps you can take to protect yourself and your business:

1. Be suspicious of unexpected messages – especially those asking for urgent payments or personal details.
2. Never click on suspicious links – even if they look like they’re from your bank or a government agency.
3. Use strong, unique passwords – and consider a password manager to keep track.
4. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) – for your banking and email accounts.
5. Keep your software and devices updated – including antivirus protection.
6. Verify before you act – if you receive a suspicious request, call the organisation directly using a trusted number.

If you’ve been targeted by a scam or notice unusual activity on your account, contact us immediately. We’re committed to protecting your financial wellbeing and can help you take the right steps quickly.

You can also report scams to:

• Australia: Scamwatch