Scams targeting Businesses – Be aware!

Scammers are causing significant financial loss and reputation risks to businesses.  Be it through hacking, ransomware, email scams, fraudulent payments, etc, you don’t want this to happen to you!

Here are some tips to help you protect your business:

• Never provide personal information and banking details to anybody you don’t know or trust
• Don’t let tactics like bullying, negotiations for a lower price, or charges for unordered or unused goods affect your decision
• Don’t open an attachment to an email that looks suspicious.  Remember a Bank or he ATO will never ask you to click on a link to verify your details.  Delete, delete, delete!
• Consider the information you post on social media as scammers use publicly available information to target businesses
• Do not agree to offers or deals straightaway – always ask for an offer in writing
• Have clear procedures for verifying, paying and managing accounts and invoices.  If your supplier suddenly has different bank details, check it with them first.  Chances are it may be a scam!
• Keep your computers and mobile devices secure – install computer protection software and back up your data regularly
• Change passwords regularly

If you spot a scam or have been scammed, report it to the appropriate authority.  It is important you act quickly to reduce your risk of financial loss or other damages.