ACCC Scamwatch is warning customers to protect their accounts and watch out for scams following Optus data breach.
Scamwatch is warning Optus customers to be on the look out for scams and take steps to secure their personal information following a cyber-attack.
A cyber-attack has resulted in the release of Optus customers’ personal information. If you are an Optus customer your name, date of birth, phone number, email addresses may have been released. For some customers identity document numbers such as driver’s licence or passport numbers could be in the hands of criminals. It is important to be aware that you be may be at risk of identity theft and take urgent action to prevent harm.
Optus customers should take immediate steps to secure all of their accounts, particularly their bank and financial accounts. You should also monitor for unusual activity on your accounts and watch out for contact by scammers.
Steps you can take to protect your personal information include:
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- Secure your devices and monitor for unusual activity
- Change your online account passwords and enable multi factor authentication for banking
- Check your accounts for unusual activity such as items you haven’t purchased
- Place limits on your accounts or ask you bank how you can secure your money
- If you suspect fraud you can request a ban on your credit report.
Scammers may use your personal information to contact you by phone, text or email. Never click on links or provide personal or financial information to someone who contacts you out of the blue. Learn how to protect yourself from scams by visiting www.scamwatch.gov.au
If you are concerned that your identity has been compromised or you have been a victim of a scam contact your bank immediately and call IDCARE on 1800 595 160. IDCARE is Australia’s national identity and cyber support service, to get expert advice from a specialist identity and cyber security service. You can also report scams to Scamwatch www.scamwatch.gov.au and check cyber.gov.au for information about cyber security.
