Don’t be a victim of cyber criminals. Learn how to protect your computer from malware.
Estimated reading time is 5 minutes.
Estimated reading time is 5 minutes.
Technology is helping farmers become more productive and profitable, but it can also make them vulnerable to cybercrime.
Farmers hold business data and intellectual property that’s very attractive to cyber criminals. For example:
The good news is there are some simple steps you can take to keep your agribusiness safe.
This could be as simple as copying your data onto a USB stick or a removable hard drive and storing it somewhere safe. It’s best practice to back-up your data on two different devices. You can also consider backing up your data to a secure cloud service.
Remember to disconnect the back-up device from the computer when you’re finished, as attackers are known to encrypt or delete back-ups connected to the computer or network.
It’s also important to test your back-up frequently by restoring data to a test location. This helps identify any problems, so you can be confident that your back-up will work in an actual crisis.
If your work computer is also used for social media, playing games, watching videos and streaming music by you or other family members, it's more vulnerable to security issues. That’s because non-work use increases the risk of accidentally clicking on a suspicious link or allowing malicious software to be installed. Use a separate computer for business tasks and banking to help minimise this risk.
Cyber criminals commonly use email to deliver malicious software. Some emails carrying malicious software or ransomware may appear to be a legitimate invoice from a farm supplier, an energy company or the ATO, for example.
Always check the sender address, ensure the request looks valid and consider whether the email is expected before responding to them. Be extra careful with emails that:
Learn more about how to spot spam and phishing emails. You can also see the latest security alerts you need to be aware of.
Add an extra layer of security to your email and banking accounts by turning on Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). This means providing an additional piece of information, such as an SMS code sent to your phone or a security token, in addition to your password, when you access your accounts. This can prevent unauthorised access even if someone has your password.
It’s important to keep your anti-virus software up-to-date to protect yourself from the latest security threats. While trial anti-virus software is free, the software usually only updates during the trial period. Check your software to confirm that it's active and set to automatically update, scan and flag suspicious activity.
Also, turn on automatic updates for your computer’s operating system and programs. This will ensure your computer always has the latest security updates. Each operating system is slightly different, so if you're unsure check the Microsoft or Apple websites for information.
Don’t be afraid to ask your accountant, bookkeeper or business manager about their online security practices, to see how they’re protecting your data. Cyber criminals often target third parties to gain access to a business’s data.
If you’ve made a substantial investment in information technology, talk to an impartial advisor. People who sell the equipment might downplay the risks while people who sell cyber security might recommend more protection than is strictly necessary. No-one can guarantee that you won’t be hacked, but, like regular thieves, the majority of cyber criminals are opportunists. In most cases, all you need to do is convince them that they should move on to an easier target.
Australian Government | Australian Cyber Security Centre
The Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) brings cyber security capabilities from across the Australian Government together. It’s the hub for collaboration and information sharing to combat cyber security threats. ACSC provides timely information on how home internet users and small businesses can protect themselves from cyber security threats. They also help users reduce their risks of software vulnerabilities, online scams, malicious activities, and risky online behaviours.
Australian Government | ReportCyber
ReportCyber is a secure reporting and referral service for cybercrime. These online incidents may be in breach of Australian law. The ReportCyber website provides a cybercrime reporting mechanism as well as helpful information about cybercrime.
Australian Competition and Consumer Commission | Scamwatch
Scamwatch provides information to consumers and small businesses about how to recognise, avoid and report scams using publications, videos and other online resources.
Australian Government | Office of the eSafety Commissioner
The Office of the eSafety Commissioner provides online safety education for Australian children and young people, a complaints service for young Australians who experience serious cyberbullying, and addresses illegal online content.
Australian Government | Attorney-General’s Department
The Attorney-General’s Department website provides helpful information and resources about your rights and protections in regards to identity security, freedom of information and cyber security. The Department has developed a range of resources to assist people to protect their identity and recover from the effects of identity crime.
Don’t be a victim of cyber criminals. Learn how to protect your computer from malware.
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