A survey on identity theft risks released by internet security software company AVG today reveals the Australian cities most at risk of online identity fraud and data loss.
The survey of online and mobile consumer behaviour was conducted over 2 weeks in August, and involved 1250 consumers across 5 states of Australia who own an Internet-connected device and have Internet-access at home.
Results showed Perth respondents were most at risk for stolen identities, digital fraud and data loss, followed by Brisbane, then Sydney and Melbourne in equal third and Adelaide ranking fifth as the most security savvy city.
Here are AVG’s findings :
Overall Results
Across the board, the survey showed many Australians are putting themselves at risk of identity theft, viruses and malware with poor PC security habits and a lack of comprehensive protection. Of those surveyed in the five cities:
• 22 per cent have been the victim of a phishing scam
• 25 per cent have shared online passwords with at least one other person
• 12 per cent do not run an anti-virus scan at least monthly
• 73 per cent do not use an identity monitoring service or other form of identity protection service.
Recently we blogged about mobile security and the need for people to secure their smartphone to prevent identity theft. Interestingly, AVG’s survey revealed how little users considered the value of security on their mobile devices.
While most of those questioned (77 per cent) use three or more passwords online, less than one in five (18 per cent) had changed the password on their mobile device in the past year.
“Consumers are getting better at recognising and addressing online threats, but it’s vital to ensure all your bases are covered. Taking some security measures and overlooking others — such as backing up your PC and not your smartphone — is like locking your door and leaving the windows open. Comprehensive online protection means covering all Internet-enabled devices – smartphone, tablet and PC,” said Lloyd Borrett, Security Evangelist at AVG (AU/NZ).
In terms of credit repair –the statistics are interesting. MyCRA certainly has seen a few clients from Perth who have claimed to be victims of identity fraud.
Often it is not understood how easy it is for criminals to steal peoples’ personal information or bank details online, and then use that information to take out credit in the victim’s name. It is also not realised how widespread the problem is becoming.
A recent survey of online fraud reveals one in 10 people have lost money to online fraud in the past year. That figure has doubled in four years.
There can be great difficulty for people in recovering their clear credit file following identity theft. Particularly with some of the more sophisticated forms of identity theft, often the victim is not aware their credit file has been used right away. Often people don’t know they are victims until they apply for credit and are flatly refused. Some have even had properties mortgaged in their name.
Credit rating defaults remain on credit files in Australia for 5 years. The consequence of people having a black mark on their credit rating is generally an inability to obtain credit. Most of the major banks refuse credit to people who have defaults, or even too many credit enquiries.
By law in Australia, if a listing contains inconsistencies the credit file holder has the right to negotiate their amendment or removal.
But to clear their good name, the identity theft victim needs to prove to creditors they did not initiate the credit – which can be difficult. Not only are victims generally required to produce police reports, but large amounts of documentary evidence to substantiate to creditors the case of identity theft.
In terms of preventing this crime, there is a host of information for internet users, but many people don’t learn about identity theft until they or someone they know becomes a victim.
The Government has two websites with a host of information about safe computer use for internet users. Its Stay Smart Online website gives people information on how they can secure their computer, as well as safety tips for the whole family.
The SCAMwatch website www.scamwatch.gov.au specifically warns internet users about scams in the community. Visitors can log on to an alert system for any new scams which are found to threaten the safety of people and their personal information.
The Stay Smart Online website recommends Australians follow these 8 top tips for increasing their resistance to identity fraud, and avoiding the loss to their bank balance and potentially their good name:
1. Install and renew your security software and set it to scan regularly.
2. Turn on automatic updates on all your software, including your operating system and other applications.
3. Think carefully before you click on links or attachments, particularly in emails and on social networking sites.
4. Regularly adjust your privacy settings on social networking sites.
5. Report or talk to someone about anything online that makes you feel uncomfortable or threatened – download the government’s Cybersafety Help Button.
6. Stop and think before you post any photos or financial or personal information about yourself, your friends or family.
7. Use strong passwords and change them at least twice a year.
8. Talk within your family about good online safety.
For more information on credit rating repair following identity theft, people can visit the MyCRA Credit Repairs website www.mycra.com.au.
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