Multiple companies are experiencing data leaks, most recently Qantas. It’s an important time to revise your account safety. If you have been notified by an affected business your information may have been leaked, stay alert for any suspicious phone calls, activity or scams, and learn how to protect your data.
The personal information released could put impacted customers at a higher risk of identity theft, so it’s important to safeguard your financial accounts.
What should I look out for following a data leak?
Be on alert for any of the following suspicious activity:
- Don’t trust a caller just because they know some of your personal information, even if it appears to be from a legitimate number. Hang up and call them back yourself using the contact number listed on a reliable document like an invoice or statement.
- Ignore SMS messages or emails and do not click on any links that ask you to validate your personal information or provide your details, especially in regard to updating your password. Banks should never ask you for this information.
- Contact your mobile provider immediately if your phone stops working or you unexpectedly lose service
- Contact your bank as soon as possible to report any unusual activity, like emails or texts that ‘confirm’ a new account being opened or a transaction you did not make.
How can I keep my information safe?
In addition to the account monitoring and security control measure that most banks have in place, you can take the following steps to secure your accounts as a precaution:
- Update your online passwords securely through your bank’s app or internet banking
- Manage the registered devices that you’re logged in on and remove any dated profiles
- Manage your payment limits for BPAY® and other third party transfers
- Monitor your accounts for any unusual activity.
What should I do if my information has been compromised by a data leak?
In most cases, businesses that have been targeted will contact impacted customers with communications and next steps on an individual basis.
Scamwatch also offer advice on additional steps you can take to protect yourself.
If you’re worried that you’ve been a victim of a scam or unauthorised transactions, contact your bank and report to Scamwatch.
