How to Identify and Prevent Mobile Scams During Holidays

Being cyber smart is not about being a tech expert. It is about forming simple habits that protect your personal information and help you spot scams before they cause trouble. With more of our lives happening online, these habits matter more than ever. 

For extra guidance, the Australian Government’s eSafety Commissioner provides excellent online safety advice at https://www.esafety.gov.au/. 

Use strong and unique passwords  

A weak password is like leaving your front door unlocked. Use long, hard to guess passwords and avoid using the same one for every account. A password manager can help. 

Be cautious with links and attachments  

Scammers often make dodgy links look real. Hover over a link to check the actual web address. If it looks odd or misspelt, do not click it. 

Keep your software updated  

Updates fix security gaps that hackers like to exploit. Always update through your device settings, not through links sent by email or text. 

Enable two factor authentication (2FA)  

2FA adds an extra step when you log in, such as a code sent to your phone. Even if someone gets your password, they still cannot access your account. 

Use a VPN on public Wi Fi  

Public Wi Fi is convenient but not always safe. A VPN encrypts your connection and helps protect your data. 

Think before you share  

Sharing too much online can give scammers clues about your identity or passwords. Even small bits of information can help them. 

Back up your data regularly  

If your device is hit with malware or ransomware, backups ensure you do not lose everything. Use an external hard drive or a trusted cloud service. 

Phishing is one of the most common ways scammers fool people. They pretend to be someone you trust and try to get you to hand over personal information. 

Email scams  

These often look professional and urgent. They may claim: 

• Your account has been locked 

• A payment has failed 

• A parcel is waiting 

• You need to verify your identity 

The aim is to make you panic and click without thinking. 

SMS scams  

Short, urgent messages designed to make you act quickly. They often include suspicious links. 

Social media scams 

Fake pages, fake competitions or fake customer support accounts may try to get your details or send you to a fake website. 

Phone scams 

Scammers may pretend to be from: 

• The ATO 

• Your bank 

• A tech support team 

They often use fear tactics to pressure you. 

Remember: legitimate organisations will never ask for passwords, banking details, or remote access to your device. 

If something looks suspicious: 

• Do not respond 

• Do not click any links 

• Do not provide personal information 

• Block the number 

• Report it to Scamwatch at https://www.scamwatch.gov.au/ 

• Warn friends and family 

Scamwatch, run by the ACCC, provides up to date information on current scams and how to report them. 

Viruses  

Spread between files and devices, causing damage or stealing information. 

Trojans 

Look like legitimate apps or files but give hackers access to your device. 

Ransomware  

Locks your files and demands payment. Paying does not guarantee recovery. 

Spyware  

Monitors your activity and collects personal information. 

Protect yourself by avoiding untrusted downloads, keeping antivirus software updated, and practising good cybersecurity habits. 

Fake online stores  

Scammers create websites that look real but only exist to take your money. 

Gift card scams 

No legitimate business or government agency will ask you to pay with gift cards. 

Travel scams  

Cheap flights or exclusive holiday deals may be used to steal your money or identity. 

Charity scams 

Scammers pretend to represent real charities. Always donate through official websites. 

Teach young people to: 

• Ask before clicking unfamiliar links 

• Avoid sharing personal information 

• Use strong passwords 

• Be cautious with free downloads 

• Tell an adult if something feels wrong 

The eSafety Commissioner website has excellent resources for families. 

Many parents also look for safe and reliable mobile plans for their children. Yomojo is a strong choice, having been recognised by WhistleOut as the best option for kids’ plans for four consecutive months. 

You can support older family & friends by: 

• Showing them how to recognise suspicious messages 

• Encouraging them to check with you before responding 

• Helping them set up 2FA and strong passwords 

• Installing updates for them 

• Reminding them that legitimate organisations will not ask for personal details over the phone 

A quick conversation can prevent a major problem. 

Scammers may be more active during this season, but with the right knowledge, you can stay ahead of them. Yomojo is here to help you stay informed and protected, and to keep you connected with our better plans. This gives families safe, reliable, and affordable options so you can enjoy the holidays with peace of mind.