Settlement Guide: Avoid falling victim to online fraudsters

The internet has never been more present in our daily lives. We work, shop, play and interact with family and friends online.

Online Scam Source: AAP

But more Australians are falling victim to online scams than ever before. The Australian Governments Stay Smart Online week reminds consumers of how we can stay safe on the net. Reports of cybercrime in Australia are on the rise. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commissions annual Targeting Scams report shows a 47 per cent increase in reporting of scams in 2016, with Aussies losing $300 million dollars. And almost half of those reporting cybercrimes are people aged over 55 years old. With cybercrime activities costing Australia more and more, it has become a government agenda to raise awareness and protect its community. Interpol identifies two kinds of cybercrime, firstly 'advanced' which are attacks against computer hardware and software. Secondly 'cyber-enabled' crime in which traditional crimes such as fraud, crimes against children and terrorism are transformed with the internet.