With tax time well underway, it is more important than ever to keep your business secure online. The best way to do this is by putting systems and processes in place to help reduce the risk of a cyberattack and planning your response if one does occur.
All Australian businesses are potential cyberattack targets. In FY23, the average cost of cybercrime for small businesses in Australia was $46,000. But don’t panic, there are preventative measures you can take, such as safeguarding accounts, protecting devices and information, and training your staff in identifying and flagging potential cybersecurity breaches and threats.
Our tips for reducing the risk of a cyberattack:
- Ensure your operating systems are secure by running the latest software updates, including antivirus updates.
- Access online government services, like myGov, by manually typing the web address into your browser.
- If something seems suspicious, do not engage or respond. Visit ato.gov.au/scams to confirm or report the contact. You can also check for examples of recent ATO impersonation scams to help you to recognise what is and is not legitimate.
- Be cautious when clicking on links and providing personal information. The ATO have removed hyperlinks from unsolicited text messages to help you to differentiate between a legitimate SMS and a scam attempt.
- Never disclose your personal or business information over social media. Be particularly wary of vague, anonymous, or otherwise suspicious accounts.
- Disconnect any suspicious calls claiming to be from the ATO, a bank, etc. Where possible, do not answer phone calls that appear suspicious.
- Educate your employees on scams and promote cybersecurity awareness. The best way to keep your business safe is to equip all staff with the knowledge of how best to protect your operating systems, passwords, and sensitive information.
Tax time can be stressful, especially for business owners, but with these cybersecurity safety tips, you can safeguard against potential threats and reduce your risk of being subjected to a cyberattack.
If you have any questions on the above, please reach out to your Client Manager on (07) 4052 0800.
Noelle Halpin
Business Manager
