Cyber security for small business is something many owners don’t think about… until something goes wrong.
At Hills Accounting Hobart, we believe it is important that you know what to do if the scammer is successful
It only takes a moment.
An email arrives.
You click a link… or process a payment.
And then something doesn’t feel quite right.
If that’s happened, don’t panic!.
There are steps you can take.
⚠️ First Things First — Act Quickly
Time matters in these situations.
The sooner you act, the better the chances of limiting any damage.
Even if you’re not 100% sure something is wrong — it’s still worth taking action.
📞 1. Contact Your Bank Immediately
If money has been transferred, call your bank immediately.
They may be able to:
- Stop or recall the transaction
- Freeze the receiving account
- Guide you through the next steps
Don’t wait to “see what happens”.
🧾 2. Report the Scam
Reporting helps protect others as well as yourself.
You can report scams via Scamwatch:
This also helps authorities track patterns and warn others.
🔐 3. Secure Your Accounts
If you clicked a link or entered details:
- Change your passwords immediately
- Enable two-factor authentication where possible
- Check for any unusual activity
If the same password is used elsewhere, update those accounts too.
📧 4. Let Relevant People Know
If the email involved a supplier, client, or colleague, contact them directly (using known details).
This helps:
- Confirm whether the message was genuine
- Prevent further payments being made by others
🤝 5. Speak With Your Accountant
This is where having support can really help.
Hills Accounting can help you:
- Understand what’s happened
- Keep accurate records
- Work through any financial impact
Even if it turns out to be a false alarm — it’s always better to check.
🧠 A Quick Reality Check
This doesn’t just happen to careless people.
These scams are designed to look real.
They’re often well-timed, well-written, and often based on genuine business activity.
If something slipped through — you’re not alone.
🛡️ Moving Forward
Once everything is secure, it’s worth reviewing your processes:
- Confirm payment changes by phone
- Double-check email addresses carefully
- Slow things down when money is involved
Small habits can make a big difference.
📌 Final Thought
The most important thing is not what happened.
It’s what you do next.
Act quickly, get the right support, and take steps to protect yourself moving forward.
Remember, this article is general in nature and doesn’t take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, or needs. For advice tailored to your circumstances, have a chat with us at Hills Accounting Hobart.
Talk to Kathy and the team today and stay ahead with Hills Insights.
Call Now! 03 6273 7800, or email admin@hillsaccounting.com.au.
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