FREE Cyber Safety Information Session

Concerned about identity theft, scams and cybercrime? Learn how to protect yourself at one of IDCARE’s free community events

Consumer Protection and IDCARE have joined forces to deliver 20 free community events called Cyber Resilience Outreach Clinics (CROC), with a focus on regional Western Australia to provide information to consumers on scams, cybercrime and identity theft.   IDCARE has found Australians living in remote and regional communities are three times more likely to be impacted by cybercrime and scams than their city counterparts and experience higher financial losses.   WA locations were selected based on IDCARE data, current geographical events, such as the Kimberley floods, and requests from the community.

Western Australians lost a record total of almost $16 million to scams in 2022.

1,203 Western Australians reported total scam losses of $15,988,513 to ScamNet in 2022, an increase of $1,196,805 from the 1,041 losses reported in 2021, and a $4,188,513 increase from the 952 losses reported in 2020.  An Australian Competition and Consumer Commission survey has indicated approximately only 13 per cent of scam losses are reported to regulators.

This alarming data shows as scams have become more sophisticated, more Western Australians are falling victim to them, resulting in larger losses. It also highlights the importance of fostering awareness and resilience in the fight against cybercrimes, scams and identity theft.

IDCARE is Australia and New Zealand’s national identity and cyber incident community support service, a not-for-profit and registered Australian charity.  The clinic will provide current information including:

• National Monthly snapshot of Financial Losses for the Australian community per locality, and what causes the highest financial losses.
• What the criminals are targeting, and what do they do with it?
• Scams calls, texts and emails including examples of current scams.
• The Professional Scammer – Psychology of a Scammer.
• Remote access, data breaches and data breach notifications.
• The keys to staying safe – physical, technical and behavioural.
• IDCARE resources and how individuals can access free community support services.