Avoid malicious actors this Malware Monday

Malicious software (known as malware) can be spread through spam email or messages, as links or attachments, through malicious websites that attempt to install the malware when visited, or by pretending to be a legitimate application that the user downloads and installs themselves.

An Australian Institute of Criminology survey of more than 10,000 Australians in 2023 found 20.6 per cent had been a victim of malware, with 5.8 per cent reporting an increase in ads appearing on their devices and 4.9 per cent reporting their device had begun acting strangely or slowing down.

Cybercriminals commonly use malware to steal data, send spam to the infected device, install programs or allow the attacker to take control of the device remotely.

The NSW Government is encouraging people to be prudent online and watch out for the warning signs of potential malware downloads this Cyber Security Awareness Month.

ID Support NSW has the following advice on how to avoid downloading malware and stay secure online this Malware Monday:

• Make sure to keep your antivirus software up to date.
• Always read emails carefully and if in doubt call the government agency or bank directly to confirm it is them trying to get in touch with you.
• Look out for the warning signs of a scam email such as urgently requesting payment or personal information.
• Webinars are available to help you mitigate risk and secure your devices including a Malware Monday webinar which is free for everyone to access.
• Avoid clicking on suspicious links or pop-up ads.
• Regularly update your passwords and use the free Password Strength Tester to evaluate how tough your password is to crack.
• Everyone can call ID Support NSW if they need guidance or believe their personal information has been compromised.

More information on how to protect your identity online, as well as other cybersecurity tips, is available via the NSW Government website.

Information about ID Support NSW events, as well how to book your own local ID Support NSW assistance event, is available on the ID Support NSW events webpage.

Quotes to be attributed to Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government, Jihad Dib:

“This Cyber Security Awareness Month we want NSW residents to be safe online and stay alert when receiving emails and messages."

“Malware isn’t just an annoyance – it can steal your personal information and disrupt your everyday life. Taking a few simple precautions can make a big difference in keeping your information safe."

“Malware Monday is a reminder for us to take steps to protect our identity and avoid downloading suspicious material."

“If in doubt, our helpful ID Support NSW team is on hand to provide guidance on how to stay safe online.”