Think before you click: Ten simple tips to outsmarting online scams

The internet is an essential part of life, but it also comes with risks. Scammers, hackers and cybercriminals are constantly finding new ways to exploit unsuspecting users. No one is immune to scams - it can happen to the best of us! With a few savvy moves, you can avoid becoming hacker bait.

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Steps to get your online security right

1. Create Long, Strong and Unique Passwords

Your password shouldn’t be your pet’s name followed by ‘123’. Hackers can guess that faster than you can say ‘compromised account’.

Tips:

Aim for at least 12-15 characters
Mix uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers and symbols
Use a different password for every account (yes, its annoying, but so is identity theft use a password manager to remember your passwords)

2. Turn on two factor authentication

Think of two-factor authentication like a VIP bouncer for your accounts. Even if someone steals your password, they still need a unique code sent to your phone or app to get in.

Tips:

Turn it on for all important accounts (email, banking, social media)
Use an authenticator app instead of a text message for extra security as sometimes people can steal your phone number

3. Activate auto updates on apps and devices

Updates aren’t just annoying pop ups, they’re there to protect your security. Hackers can exploit the weaknesses in your software to access your accounts.

Tips:

Turn on automatic updates for all devices and apps
Keep your antivirus software up to date
Delete old apps collecting digital dust – they could be a security risk

4. Set your social media settings to private

Cyber criminals love over sharers. By posting an innocent picture about your dog’s birthday or weekend plans, cyber criminals can work out a lot about you.

Tips:

Switch privacy settings to ‘Private’ or ‘Friends Only’
Don’t share personal detail like your full birthday or home address
Be wary of friend requests from strangers, catfishes are out there

5. Think before you click

Clicking dodgy links is the online equivalent of accepting candy from a stranger – just don’t do it. Some scams are so sophisticated now that they use similar branding as reputable companies to try catch you out.

Tips:

Hover over links to see where they actually lead
Don’t download attachments from unknown senders unless you enjoy playing malware roulette
If an email claims you have won something you don’t remember entering, you probably didn’t win anything

6. Beware of Phishing scams

Phishing emails are looking to hook you in. These scams try to trick you into handing over personal information.

Tips:

Double check the senders email address. Scammers love to fake legitimate looking email addresses.
Don’t panic if an email claims your account has been suspended. Log in to the official website instead of clicking links.
If it sounds dramatic or too good to be true, it is probably a scam.

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7. Watch out for fake websites and online shopping scams

Not all websites are what they seem. Some are wolves dressed in sheep's clothing, designed to steal your details.

Tips:

Look for ‘https://’ in the URL (the ‘s’ is for secure and you want that)
Google the website and read reviews before buying
Avoid entering payment details while on public Wi-Fi as hackers can access your payment details

8. Recognise online investment and job scams

If a ‘job’ promises you thousands for doing practically nothing or an ‘investment’ guarantees huge returns, congratulations – you’ve found a scam.

Tips:

Research companies before investing or accepting job offers
Avoid anything that asks for upfront payments or personal banking details
Remember: if its sounds too good to be true, it definitely is.

9. Protect your personal devices

Your phone and laptop are goldmines of personal data.

Tips:

Use a strong password or biometric authentication such as facial recognition
Encrypt your devices – sounds high tech but is just a setting that keeps your data unreadable to hackers
Avoid sketchy USB charging stations as some will transfer malware to your device

10. Secure your home network

Your Wi-Fi network is your digital front door. Don’t leave it wide open for cyber criminals.

Tips:

Change your default modem password that comes with the device
WPA3 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 3) is the latest security standard for Wi-Fi networks, offering stronger encryption and better protection against hackers than older versions like WPA2. For example, if a neighbour tries to guess your Wi-Fi password, WPA3 makes it much harder for them to break in by using advanced encryption techniques. To stay secure, check your router settings and enable WPA3 if it's available.
Hide your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) from public view
Keep your modems firmware updated

Overall trust your instincts and stay informed. Report scams when you see them and help others avoid the trap. Staying safe online isn’t about paranoia, it’s about being smart and prepared to protect your safety.