The National Anti-Scam Centre is warning small businesses and consumers to be cautious following the CrowdStrike/Microsoft outage.
The centre is warning to be wary of unsolicited calls, emails or messages requesting they download a software patch or provide remote access to fix or protect their computer, as downloading unsolicited software can give scammers access to your computer, including your bank accounts.
Catriona Lowe, Deputy Chair at the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), said anyone can be scammed, so it is important to be wary of any unsolicited contact that purports to provide assistance in the aftermath of a major event like this.
“Criminals look to take advantage of incidents like this CrowdStrike outage, creating a sense of urgency that you need to do what they say to protect your computer and your financial information.”
The National Anti-Scam Centre has offered the following advice:
STOP – don’t be rushed into downloading software or providing personal or financial information.
CHECK – verify who you are talking to – call your IT support or financial institution on a number you have sourced independently.
PROTECT – Act quickly – if you have provided access or information contact your bank immediately and report to scamwatch.gov.au to help protect others.
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