OUTSMARTING THE SCAMMERS

In today's world, scams are about as common as a cup of morning coffee. And just like you wouldn't drink a dodgy-looking brew, you shouldn't fall for a dodgy-looking scam.

A few days ago, we at Hills Accounting Hobart had to send out a quick message to all our clients because someone was pretending to be us. In order to help you stay safe, here are nine simple tips to help you keep the scammers at bay.

1. Recognise Common Scams

First things first, let's get familiar with the usual suspects. Scams come in all shapes and sizes, from phishing emails pretending to be your bank, to phone calls claiming you've won a holiday (if only!). Knowing what to look out for is your first line of defence.

Example: Ever received an email from someone needing your help to unlock a fortune, or with an unbelievably good investment idea? Classic scam. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

2. Verify the Source

Before you click, call, or share anything, make sure it's legit. Check the official website or contact the organisation directly using verified contact details. Scammers are pros at making their fake emails and websites look real.

Tip: Hover over email addresses and links to see where they really lead. If it's not what you expect, hit delete.

As a prime example. as I was writing this article I received an email purporting to come from Meta (as Facebook are now called) telling me my FB account was about to be suspended. The address it came from was Meta help center <bmy6942@hotmail.com> 

Now I may not be smartest fellow around but I know that Meta are not going to be using a hotmail email address. That one is now in the junk folder.

3. Protect Personal Information

Treat your personal info like gold – because to scammers, it is. Never share your personal or financial details over the phone, via email, or on unsecured websites. Use strong, unique passwords for different accounts and change them regularly.

Password Pro-Tip: If your password is something like “password123”, it’s time for an upgrade. Mix it up with a combo of letters, numbers, and symbols.

4. Be Wary of Unsolicited Offers

If you didn’t enter a competition, you probably didn’t win one. High-pressure tactics and urgent deadlines are red flags. Take your time and think before responding to unsolicited offers.

Humour Alert: If a Nigerian prince wants to give you a million dollars, ask him if he'd like to join your book club instead. See how fast he disappears.

5. Use Secure Websites

When shopping online or entering sensitive information, make sure the website is secure. Look for HTTPS in the URL and a little padlock icon. Stick to reputable online retailers and avoid making transactions over public Wi-Fi.

Tech Tip: If the website address starts with “HTTP” instead of “HTTPS”, it’s like sending a love letter in an unsealed envelope.

6. Enable Security Features

Activate two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts for an extra layer of protection. Keeping your software and antivirus programs up-to-date is another easy way to stay safe.

Pro-Tip: 2FA is like the doorman for your online accounts. Only those with the right credentials get in.

7. Educate Yourself and Stay Informed

Knowledge is power, and staying informed is key. If you're running a business, make sure your employees know how to spot scams, especially those targeting businesses.

From the family perspective, make sure that everyone in your family can gauge contact that just doesn't seem right and not respond to it until they have spoken to you.

Share your scam experiences with your friends and family. The more we talk about it, the harder we make it for scammers to succeed.

Subscribe to alerts from reputable sources like government websites and consumer protection agencies to keep up with the latest scam trends. Attend workshops or webinars on cybersecurity if you can.

8. Check Your Statements Regularly

Keep an eye on your financial statements. Sometimes, a small and apparently unauthorized transaction can be a sign of bigger issues.

9. Nothing Beats Professional Advice

Many scams revolve around taxes. Stay informed about your tax obligations and the ATO's communication methods. If you are not sure, that's what we are here for.

At Hills Accounting Hobart, we provide personalized advice to help you stay one step ahead of scammers. We care about your financial wellbeing.

Remember, in this digital age, scammers are getting more sophisticated, but so are we. By keeping you informed, staying vigilant, and being proactive, we can outsmart these fraudsters together and keep our finances safe.

For more information, email us today at admin@hillsaccounting.com.au or call us on 03 62737800