When you shop, sell or browse online, be smart about the process. And share your insights with others, too

One of the responses we’ve seen to how people are approaching this period of isolation and uncertainty is in huge overnight changes to their shopping behaviours. More people are taking to selling goods and services online, especially if their ability to earn an income has bee affected by job cuts.

It seems that astute investors are also looking to the web to earn some extra cash (or a large amount of cash!) or perhaps taking the time to track down something eclectic or quirky with all the extra times on their hands. One of the stranger cyber security includes of late - the second phase of a million-dollar online whisky auction had to be postponed after it became the target of a cyber-attack, perhaps in the form of a DoS.

Cyber criminals have also taken the opportunity to adjust their campaigns with this 'new normal' in mind. Scamwatch has seen a surge in Covid-19 related scams.

Among the news reported:

·      Celebrities not being immune from being implicated in cyber-attacks There's a recent cryptocurrency celebrity endorsement scam using #COVID-19 and impersonating Chris Hemsworth doing the rounds. If you see the ad - don’t click on any links.

·      Scammers are impersonating Medicare and asking for donations to assist fighting the #coronavirus pandemic. If you receive an email like this – delete it.

·      Australians lost $138, 700 to online shopping scams in the first few weeks of April , up 39% from March figures..

So, what can we do about it? As usual, education is key.

Stay Smart Online has some tips we can all use in this time where online selling and buying vs bricks and mortar, is the new normal https://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/shoppingonline.

You can follow Scamwatch on Twitter https://twitter.com/Scamwatch_gov for info on the latest scams doing the rounds.

Promote cyber security as a life skill among your employees by sharing these tips in your staff newsletter, Yammer or Intranet page. We’re all in this together!

Reach out to me if you need assistance with Security Culture Programs, content or training delivery.