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Emails will be down for an hour or so.

24/2/2016

 
Just letting our customers know that we are in the process of a computer upgrade which will mean that our emails will need to migrate across to the new system.  Our emails are likely to be down for an hour or so during this process so please be patient with us.  Our phones are back online so if you'd like to discuss your loan or apply for another one then pick up the phone and give us a call on 1300 361 051.

Online Security - thanks to Westpac

17/2/2016

 
​Online security checklist

Internet Banking is accessible via any PC with Internet access. However, before using Internet Banking you should ensure the PC has up-to-date security software and is free from Viruses or Trojans.

Try to avoid shared computers, like those at an Internet cafe, because you won't always know if it's backed up with good security software.

Keep in mind when using other computers to download your bank statement, the browser may cache your information and make it available for other people to view. To avoid this please ensure you clear the cache at all times.

If you must use a shared computer, sign out properly and close the browser or application completely when you've finished.


Protect your computer
  1. Install security software.
  2. Turn on automatic updates for all your security software.
  3. Avoid using public computers as they may have a keystroke logger installed that captures password, credit card and bank account details.
  4. Set strong passwords and change them regularly
  5. Examine your browser settings, particularly the security settings. Select options that meet your needs without putting you at increased risk. If in doubt set the security levels to high.

Protect yourself
  1. Most banks have SMS Code which uses your mobile phone to confirm certain transactions via text message when banking online. It's quick, simple and provides you with increased security, free of charge.
  2. Identify and delete hoax emails 
  3. Delete SPAM - don't open emails from a source you don't trust. Even better, check if your Internet service provider offers a spam filtering service
  4. Phishing filter - the latest browsers offer a built-in filter that scans web pages you visit for characteristics associated with known online web fraud or phishing scams, and warns you that such sites might be suspicious
  5. Always access www.westpac.com.au by typing the address into your browser, checking that you're connected to a legitimate Westpac website. And always select "sign out" from the Online Banking menu when you complete your banking.  This applies to all banks.
  6. Protect your identity - never provide your personal or security details, including customer ID or passwords, in response to any email, even if it looks legitimate. Visit Protect your financial identity for more information.
  7. Confirm that your data is encrypted - by ensuring a symbol of a lock appears within the browser
  8. Check your last sign-in date and time (at the top of the screen) whenever you sign into Online Banking to make sure it appears correct
  9. Regularly check statements for any transactions that look suspicious.

Protect your family
  1. Create different user accounts - admin access for parents, and restricted accounts for children
  2. Block inappropriate content with an Internet content filter
  3. Stay Smart Online: a Government cyber security website designed to help understand security risks and educate users on simple steps to protect personal and financial information online. 


Protect your business
  1. SecurID® tokens: also known as 2nd factor authentication, allow you to make higher value payments online. The ultra secure process combines a security code generated by your SecurID® token and an individual password known only to the user.
  2. Keep data safe: implementing a regular backup procedure is a simple way to safeguard critical business data. Setting permissions and using encryption will also help.
  3. Set rules for Internet usage at work - unscrupulous web sites, as well as pop-ups and animations, can be dangerous. Set rules about Internet usage to protect your business and your employees.
  4. Remote access may be a business necessity, but it is also a security risk you need to closely monitor. Use strong passwords and be especially cautious about wireless networks.
  5. Protect your website with a controlled 3rd party 'ethical hack', which can help assess and mitigate the risks for Internet security, independent of any vendor or supplier.


Software protection

Updating your operating system on a regular basis is the first line of defence in keeping your computer secure. Updates (see if they can be automated) help prevent data loss, viruses and other potential risks. Microsoft Windows and Apple Mac OS are the most common operating systems.

Online virus scanners

Bitdefender QuickScan
F-Secure online scanner
Security software

Microsoft Security Essentials
McAfee Multi Access
Malwarebytes

$1250 rebate from Westpac

15/2/2016

 
For anyone out there who is considering refinancing their owner occupied home at the moment with Westpac, you may be entitled to a $1250 rebate.  Please call our office on 1300 361 051 to find out more.  The offer has an expiry date so you need to call today if this is something that is of interest to you.

Car and Equipment Finance

10/2/2016

 
Just letting our customers know some exciting news.  

We can now do car and equipment finance direct and some of our lenders have some exciting rates on offer at the moment.  

Instead of applying for a personal loan through your bank you can talk to us about getting a consumer lease.  We have lots of lenders on our panel.  

We can find you a personal loan, finance for a motorcycle, a car, a truck, business equipment, a caravan or even a boat.  It doesn't cost anything to talk to us and for us to give you a quote.  Pick up the phone today and call us on
1300 361 051.

Feb Fraud Month

10/2/2016

 

Money Scams - Thanks to Westpac

Scam emails

The following are some scam email examples reported to Westpac  for the following months. Westpac have highlighted some of the ways that can help you spot a scam email.

January 2016
Email subject line: Your account access is limited. Why?
Description: This email hoax attempts to scare you into believing that ‘illegal payments’ have been performed via Online Banking. The link leads to a fake website designed to harvest your credentials. Do not click on any links in such emails.

​December 2015

Email subject line: Important Message Ref XXXX regarding your Westpac Online Banking
Description: This email hoax threatens that your Online Banking access will be deactivated unless you act quickly by clicking on the provided link. The link leads to a fake website. Do not click on any links in such emails.

Email subject line: Online Banking Notification
Description: This email hoax advises that your Online Banking access has been disabled. Helpfully a link has been provided to re enable your access – of course, it is a trick and will lead to a fake website. Do not click on any links in such emails.

Email subject line: New Message update from Westpac
Description: This email hoax is crafted to create a sense of urgency that you must take action otherwise an unknown debit will occur on your account.

Do not click on any links in such emails.


Phone scams alert

Fraudsters don't only strike online. There's been an increase in phone scams where the caller claims to be from a reputable organisation offering to assist with a computer issue.

They then attempt to take control of, or access your computer. Do not allow this under any circumstances; just hang up. 
Also, be particularly vigilant if you’re asked to disclose any Online Banking sign-in details or Bank SMS Code sent to your mobile. Again, just don’t do it.

Protect your SMS code like you would a password or PIN
Disclosing your Internet Banking Protect SMS code - or any  Online Banking access codes - to others contravenes the banks Terms and Conditions. Doing so may find you liable for any losses due to fraud on your account. 

Other recent phone scams involve hoax callers claiming to be bank employees, who then request customer account or personal details. For better protection from phone scams:
  • Keep all access codes (e.g. ATM password, card PIN, Online Banking password, Bank SMS Code we send to your mobile) secret and secure. Banks will never ask for this information over the phone or on email.
  • If you're unsure, ask for a reference number and call back on a trusted number (i.e. phone book) to confirm if the call was genuine
  • Never give a stranger remote access to your computer
  • Do not give out your personal, account or online details unless the phone number comes from a trusted source
  • Keep your computer protected by running and updating security software purchased from trusted sources
  • If you think you've fallen for the scam, contact your bank immediately


SMS scams

September 2015
Description: SMS phone scam "Restricted Access"

May 2015
Description: SMS phone scam "Review and update details"

Malicious software alerts.  The following are recent example of some signs that your machine may be infected with malicious software such as a Trojan or virus. 

October 2015
Description: We’ve recently detected a new malware variant. Here is what happens after you log into Corporate Online on a computer that has been infected. This malware compromises your computer and tries to captures your token password and number.

Please Note: Only accounts which require a second users approval will be prompted for the "Second user authorisation".


When signing in you will receive the "Please wait" screen. This screen is quite slow when loading.

Next you will unexpectedly be asked to confirm your token details. Do not enter your token details into this screen, in the event you have please call our Corporate Online Help Desk on 1300 134 291 Mon - Fri.

When a second authoriser is required for a transaction, you will be asked for a second users details. Do not enter your details into this screen, in the event you have please call your bank.

March 2015
Description: We’ve recently detected a new malware variant. Here is what happens after you log into Online Banking on a computer that has been infected with this malware. This malware injects a new page and asks you to enter your date of birth, drive licence and asks you to download an malicious application to your mobile phone. If you have installed the application on your mobile, then un-install it as soon as possible. 
In the event you have entered your details the screen will now prompt you to enter an SMS code. If you have entered any personal information into either screens, please contact your bank immediately.

Please note, these are just some examples of what is out there in the market place.  Be aware and if something doesn't feel or seem right then better to drop into your local branch of your bank and find out or better still, give your bank a call.


Feb Fraud Month

1/2/2016

 

Identity Theft Update - Thanks to Westpac

Identity theft is on the rise in Australia.

It appears in many forms, from fraudulent credit card use, to your entire identity being used to open accounts, obtain loans, and conduct other illegal activities.


Here are 8 simple strategies to help protect your financial identity:

  • Ensure your mailbox is locked or get a postbox and check it for tampering. 
    If you'll be away from home for an extended period, arrange for mail to be held at your local post office or have a friend collect it.
  • Safely dispose of personal and financial information such as account statements, bills and receipts.  These need to be torn up or shredded before throwing them away.  
  • Sign up to electronic bank statements, which can be viewed and downloaded when banking online: eStatements are also good for the environment
  • Check you've received all expected bills, statements and tax assessment notices as a missing statement could mean someone has removed it from your mailbox.
  • Register for internet banking SMS code and receive SMS alerts to your mobile to authorise certain Online Banking transactions.
  • If you are moving house update your details straight away, often this can be done online these days.
  • Does your bank have your mobile or telephone number? Knowing your current contact details will enable them to contact you quickly if suspicious activity is detected.
  • Set up a special keyword - it’s like an extra layer of security used during Telephone Banking that makes it harder for a fraudster to assume your identity. Call you bank to initiate this service.

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    Author

    Adriana Filipowski  has a Masters in Professional Accounting, is a member of CPA and the MFAA.

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ABN: 71 117 132 537
Australian Credit Licence: 388162
AFCA MN: 44229
MFAA MN: 16115

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