If you’ve recently been scammed or are the victim of a cyber security attack, you should:

1. Immediately disconnect your computer from the Internet – i.e. turn off or unplug immediately, this prevents a malicious person from accessing your computer. Use a phone or tablet to research your situation.
2. Shut down the computer if you see any files getting encrypted.
   Call a technician for assistance before turning on your computer again.
3. Change any passwords that may have been compromised. You can see a list of password by looking at the settings in your web browser.
4. Refresh your PC to reinstall Windows. This will clear any hidden malware that the scammer has left behind.
5. If you’re a victim of crime, report to
   the Australian Cyber Security Centre
6. Report scams to ACCC through Scamwatch
7. If you’re ID has been stolen contact IDCare

To prevent falling victim to online scams review the items below:

1. Check for software updates
   – all desktops, laptops, tablets, phones
2. Check devices for firmware updates
   – routers, printers, webcams, etc.
3. Check for and remove unusual software:
   1. Task Manager -> Startup -> disable any remote access tools
   2. Settings -> Apps -> uninstall unrequired apps
   3. Uninstall expired anti-virus as this often give a false sense of security, Windows Defender will activate automatically when no other anti-virus is found.
4. Web protections
   1. Update your browser
   2. Update any browser plugins
   3. Antivirus (Is it running? Is it up-to-date?)
5. Verify your backups
   1. What is my critical data? (email, photos, documents, etc.)
   2. Where is it backed up to? (USB drive?)
   3. When was the last time I backed up?
6. Extra protections:
   1. Install a browser security extension plugin, such as:
      1. uBlock Origin
      2. Malwarebytes
   2. Use a safe DNS provider:
      1. OpenDNS
   3. Turn on 2 Factor Authentication for your important accounts:
      1. Microsoft 2FA
      2. Google 2FA
      3. Apple 2FA
   1. Turn on Windows Controlled Folder Access

Ensure everyone in your household is aware of basic security practices:

• Don’t click on suspicious links, even from people you know
• Don’t give your password to anyone over the phone
• Email names can be forged – click the name to see the senders email address
• Don’t click “unsubscribe” on emails except if you can see the link domain name properly matches the company

Investing some effort ahead of time may save you a lot of money and drama down the track. Contact us if you would like assistance with this.