Canberrans are encouraged to take simple steps to stay safe and secure online this October as part of Cyber Security Awareness Month.
In 2024, Canberrans reported more than 7,000 scams to ScamWatch and lost more than $9 million to scams and cyber criminals.
The most common scams were investment scams, threats and romance scams. The top contact methods included emails, text messages and calls.
The theme of this year’s Cyber Security Awareness Month is ‘building our cyber safe culture’. There are three key actions:
- Installing software updates to keep devices secure.
- Using a unique and strong passphrase on every account.
- Setting up multi-factor authentication.
Rachel Stephen-Smith MLA, Minister for the Public Service, said it was important for individuals, workplaces and governments to remain vigilant online and protect themselves from scams and cybercrime.
“Cyber Security Awareness Month highlights the importance of protecting yourself online and securing devices and accounts from cyber threats,” Ms Stephen-Smith said.
“This year’s theme of ‘building our cyber safe culture’ is a reminder that cyber security should be a daily habit and small actions, like creating strong passphrases, can make a big difference.”
Throughout October, the ACT Government is promoting cyber security and supporting public servants to stay safe and secure online, in addition to ongoing training and resources, Attorney-General Tara Cheyne MLA said.
“The ACT Government is committed to fostering a cyber safe culture. Every public servant has a role to play in helping secure the data and systems that support the delivery of services to our community.”
To find out more about Cyber Security Awareness Month and how to stay safe online, visit: www.actnowstaysecure.gov.au/cybermonth2025
