SCAMwatch reminds consumers to be careful when downloading and/or installing any electronic material on their computers and phones- including material from the internet (attachments and links) and phone applications.
Scammers may exploit the popularity of smartphones to infect applications designed to download malicious software onto users’ phones and to steal bank account details. This may be the next generation of phishing scam.
A smartphone is a mobile phone offering advanced capabilities beyond a typical mobile phone, often with personal computer-like functionality. Smartphone users are offered a multitude of different software applications to install onto their phones.
Applications designed to steal data could be hidden within something seemingly harmless like a game. Once it is downloaded, the rogue application could potentially steal phone numbers, address information and notes stored on the device such as passwords or bank account details.
Infected phone applications are more difficult to spot then traditional email phishing as consumers can more easily spot unusual web addresses.
SCAMwatch advises consumers to be cautious when downloading and installing any electronic material onto their computers and phones.
How to protect yourself
If in doubt, don’t install and/or download the questionable material.
Download your bank’s application through its own website. A legitimate application will require you to go through an authentication process to register your phone and create an original user name and password.
Use the browser link on your smartphone to access your bank’s website instead of downloading an application.
Report
Report the matter to the ACCC Infocentre on 1300 302 502 or visit the report a scam page on SCAMwatch.
More information
The Office of the Privacy Commissioner, in conjunction with the Australian Communications and Media Authority and the Department of Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, has produced a pocket-sized information booklet with top tips on protecting consumers privacy when using a mobile phone. Called “Mobilise Your Mobile Phone Privacy”, the product is available from www.privacy.gov.au/topics/technologies.
Explore SCAMwatch to find out more about scams that commonly target Australians and to find out ways to protect yourself.