Staying safe from scams on your new computer
A new computer opens up a lot: study, job applications, video calls with family, online banking. Unfortunately it also puts you in reach of scammers. The good news is that most scams follow a few familiar patterns, and once you know them they're much easier to spot.
Common scams to watch for
"Tech support" calls and pop-ups
Someone rings claiming to be from Microsoft, your internet provider or "the technical department", saying your computer has a virus. Or a web page suddenly fills the screen with a warning and a phone number to call. They'll ask you to install a program so they can "fix" it, then take control of your computer or ask for payment.
Real companies don't cold-call you about viruses. Hang up. If a warning page won't go away, close the browser; if that doesn't work, restart the computer.
Messages pretending to be myGov, the ATO, your bank or a delivery company
An email or text says there's a problem with your account, a refund waiting, a fine to pay or a parcel on hold, with a link to "fix it". The link goes to a fake site that looks real and asks for your login or card details.
Don't click the link. Go to the website yourself by typing the address, or use the official app, and check from there.
Pressure to pay in unusual ways
Anyone asking you to pay with gift cards, cryptocurrency or a money transfer, especially urgently, is almost certainly a scammer. Genuine organisations don't ask for this.
Simple habits that help
Slow down. Scams rely on panic and urgency. It's always fine to stop, hang up and check.
Never share passwords or one-time codes. No real bank, government service or technician will ask for them.
Don't let strangers onto your computer. Never install a program because someone who called you asked you to.
Keep your computer up to date. Install updates when your computer offers them. Linux Mint keeps receiving security updates.
Only install software from the Software Manager. It's built into your computer and has thousands of free, safe applications.
Ask someone you trust. If something doesn't feel right, check with a family member, a friend, or us.
If you think you've been scammed
If you've given out bank or card details, call your bank straight away using the number on the back of your card.
If you've shared a password, change it, and change it anywhere else you've used the same one.
If someone had remote access to your computer, turn it off the internet and come and see us.
Report it to Scamwatch, which also explains what to do next. Information is available in other languages.
Being caught by a scam is nothing to be embarrassed about. Scammers are professionals, and they fool careful people every day.
More help
Scamwatch and eSafety for seniors are both free Australian Government services. Our Help and Resources page lists these and other free help. And if your Computerbank computer is behaving strangely, call us on (03) 9600 9161 during opening hours or visit the shop at 60 Belfast Street, Broadmeadows.