Staying Safe: A Client Guide to Scams and Cyber Security

Website Scam

In today’s digital landscape, financial scams are increasingly sophisticated, with AI-powered deepfakes and impersonation tactics on the rise. As your financial planning partner, we want to ensure you’re equipped with the knowledge to protect your assets and personal information. Here’s how you can stay secure. 1 2

Recognise the Red Flags

Scammers often use urgency, unsolicited contact, and promises of guaranteed returns to pressure you into acting quickly. Be wary of: 3

  • Unexpected calls, emails, or messages offering investment opportunities.
  • Requests to move money or share personal details urgently.
  • Offers that seem too good to be true, especially on social media or messaging apps.4
  • Websites or communications impersonating legitimate businesses, including ASIC or your adviser.5 6

Verify Before You Trust

Always independently verify who you’re dealing with:

  • Check the Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL) number on ASIC’s free public registers, not just the number provided in an email or website.7 1
  • Use contact details from ASIC’s register or the business’s official website—never from the message you received.7
  • If in doubt, call us directly using the number you already have on file.

Strengthen Your Cyber Hygiene

Good cyber security habits protect both you and your data:

  • Use strong, unique passwords and a password manager to keep them safe.8
  • Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) on all financial and email accounts.9 8
  • Keep software updated to protect against known vulnerabilities.9
  • Avoid clicking links in unexpected emails – type website addresses directly into your browser.6
  • Report suspicious activity to your bank, Scamwatch, and us immediately.1

Stay Informed, Stay Protected

Scammers are constantly evolving, but so are our defences. By staying vigilant and following these steps, you can significantly reduce your risk. If you ever feel unsure, reach out – we’re here to help you navigate safely.

 

 

  1. https://www.asic.gov.au/about-asic/news-centre/find-a-media-release/2026-releases/26-195mr-asic-warns-scammersare-using-ai-to-spin-vast-webs-of-deception
  2. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-08-17/asic-ai-powered-impersonation-scams-warning-alan-kohler/107038256
  3. https://financefeeds.com/asic-removed-19400-online-scams-as-ai-deepfakes-target-search-results/
  4. https://www.asic.gov.au/newsroom/bannings-and-alerts
  5. https://www.asic.gov.au/newsroom/asics-views
  6. https://www.insurancebusinessmag.com/au/news/cyber/regulators-warned-licensees–now-scammers-are-testing-whether-they-listened-586660.aspx
  1. https://www.brokernews.com.au/news/breaking-news/scam-losses-hit-248m-in-q1-as-asic-targets-imposter-websites289528.aspx
  2. https://www.ifa.com.au/five-simple-ways-to-improve-cyber-security-in-your-advice-practice/
  3. https://www.cyberassure.com.au/blog-cyber-security-financial-planners-australia
  4. https://www.asic.gov.au/regulatory-resources/scams/asic-s-industry-scams-reviews-and-enforcement
  5. https://www.asic.gov.au/regulatory-resources/scams/investment-scam-alerts
  6. https://www.financemagnates.com/forex/brokers/asic-removes-over-19400-scams-as-ai-deepfakes-target-investors/
  7. https://www.professionalplanner.com.au/2026/06/industry-wide-standards-essential-to-robust-cybersecurity/
  8. https://xcdit.com.au/cybersecurity-for-financial-advisers/
  9. https://allitservices.com.au/the-wealth-management-firms-guide-to-apra-afs-licensing-and-it-security/
Posted in , , , ,