Simple Steps to Stay Cyber Safe

Following our January blog on scams, it’s worth noting that staying cyber‑safe is closely related and just as important for protecting your finances and identity. In this post we share practical tips and useful resources to help you stay secure online.

Cyber security is not just an IT problem – it’s an everyday part of protecting your finances and identity. Scammers and cyber criminals are getting more sophisticated, and the consequences of a compromised account can be immediate and serious. The Australian Government’s Cyber.gov.au offers clear advice on practical actions you can take today.

In this blog, we want to share some tips:

Protect your accounts with strong authentication

• Use multi‑factor authentication (MFA) everywhere it’s offered, especially on email, banking and superannuation accounts. MFA makes it much harder for criminals to access an account even if they obtain a password.
• Use unique, strong passwords for each important account and consider a reputable password manager to store them securely.

Keep devices and software updated

• Enable automatic updates for your phone, tablet and computer operating systems and apps. Many attacks exploit known software vulnerabilities that patches fix.
• Use reputable antivirus software on your devices and run regular scans.

Be cautious with emails, texts and links

• Don’t click links or open attachments in unsolicited messages. Phishing attempts often mimic banks, government agencies or familiar companies.
• If a message claims to be from your bank or super fund, independently verify it by calling the organisation using the phone number on their official website – do not use the number or link in the message.
• Never share one‑time codes, passwords or online banking details with anyone who contacts you unexpectedly.

Secure your home network and Wi‑Fi

• Change default router passwords, use a strong Wi‑Fi password and enable WPA3 or WPA2 encryption on your home network.
• Create a separate guest network for visitors and smart devices. This reduces the risk that a compromised device exposes your primary devices or accounts.

Mind what you share online

• Limit personal information on social media (full birth dates, mother’s maiden name, pet names) – this information can be used to guess passwords or answer security questions.
• Be mindful when sharing holiday plans publicly – telling the world you’re away can invite opportunistic crime.

Back up important files

• Keep secure, encrypted backups of essential documents (e.g. tax returns, trust documents, wills). Store backups offline or using a reputable cloud provider with strong security settings.

Protect your banking and financial instructions

• We will always call you on the verified phone number or email on your file before acting on requests to withdraw funds, roll over super, open accounts or change trustees. If you receive a request we have not verified, please call us using the contact details you already have – do not reply to the message.
• Set account alerts with your bank to notify you of large transactions or changes.

Guides & further reading

• Cyber.gov.au publishes short, practical guides that walk you through personal cyber security steps (passwords, MFA, device security, safe browsing and more). They are written for non‑technical users and are a great way to build simple, lasting habits. We encourage you to read the Personal Cyber Security Guides here: https://www.cyber.gov.au/protect-yourself/resources-protect-yourself/personal-cyber-security-guides – a quick 15–30 minute read can make a big difference.

If you suspect an incident – act quickly

• Contact your bank or card provider immediately if you think your money or account details have been compromised.
• Report cyber incidents and scams to ReportCyber: www.cyber.gov.au/report-and-recover/report. Reporting helps authorities investigate and prevent further harm.
• For identity recovery, consider contacting IDCARE (www.idcare.org). If you feel distressed, Lifeline is available on 13 11 14.

When in doubt, pause: stop, check and protect and contact our offices.

For full guidance and resources, visit Cyber.gov.au/protect-yourself

Protecting your finances today means protecting your digital security as well. If you would like guidance on safeguarding your accounts and financial information, we invite you to speak with a Hewison Wealth Adviser.

Start the Conversation