Cybersecurity Tips to help keep you and your information safe

Protecting Your Financial Information

In today’s digital world, electronic forms of communication and information storage are the norm rather than the exception. Safeguarding your personal and financial data is, thus, more important than ever.Cybercriminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and accounting firms such as Murray Nankivell are prime targets because of the sensitive information we handle. Here are some practical tips to help you keep your cybersecurity profile strong and your information safe.

1. Use Strong, Unique Password

• Avoid simple passwords like 123456 or password.
• Use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
• Consider a password manager to securely store and generate strong passwords.
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2. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

• MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification (e.g., SMS code or authentication app).
• Enable MFA on all financial accounts, email, and cloud services.

3. Be Wary of Phishing Emails

• Cybercriminals often impersonate trusted organisations or government agencies.
• Red flags to watch for:
  • Urgent requests for payment or personal details.
  • Links that look suspicious or unfamiliar.
  • Poor grammar or spelling errors.
 
• If in doubt, don’t click—contact the sender through official channels.

4. Keep Your Devices Updated

• Regularly update your operating system, antivirus software, and apps.
• Updates often include security patches that protect against new threats.

5. Secure Your Wi-Fi

• Use a strong password for your home or office network
• Avoid public Wi-Fi for financial transactions unless using a VPN.

6. Monitor Your Accounts Regularly

• Check your bank and accounting portals for unusual activity.
• Set up alerts for transactions to catch suspicious activity early.

7. Back Up Your Data

• Use encrypted backups stored in a secure location or cloud service.
• Regular backups protect you from ransomware attacks and accidental data loss.

8. Stay Informed

• Cyber threats evolve quickly. Follow trusted sources like the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) for updates and alerts.

Final Thoughts

Murray Nankivell is always continuing to strengthen its digital communication with you, and we will often send you various forms of electronic communications throughout each financial year. If you do receive any electronic communication that purports to originate from Murray Nankivell and you are unsure that it is from us, please contact us as soon as possible to verify its authenticity.

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Here are some useful links:
Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC)

The ACSC offers comprehensive guidance, alerts, and tools tohelp individuals and businesses stay secure online. You can find trustedresources and the latest threat advisories on their official website:
Australian Cyber SecurityCentre – cyber.gov.au

Scamwatch (National Anti‑Scam Centre, ACCC)

Scamwatch is run by the Australian Competition and ConsumerCommission and provides up‑to‑date information on how to identify, avoid, andreport scams targeting Australians:
Scamwatch –scamwatch.gov.au

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