Privacy breaches and identity theft: steps you can take

Customers are advised to check the Optus website for information and contact Optus via the My Optus App or call 133 937. There are also other things that you can do.

ACCC Scamwatch has created a simple checklist of ways to help safeguard your personal information:

• Secure your devices and monitor for unusual activity
• Change your online account passwords and enable multi-factor authentication for banking
• Check your accounts for unusual activity such as items you haven’t purchased
• Place limits on your accounts or ask your bank how you can secure your money.

Accessing your free credit reports is an important way you can check whether any unauthorised accounts have been opened using your personal details. If you suspect fraud, you can request a ban on your credit report.

You are entitled to check your credit report for free every 3 months. You can request a copy of your credit report from these credit reporting bodies:

• Equifax: https://www.mycreditfile.com.au/
• Experian: https://www.experian.com.au/order-credit-report
• illion: https://www.creditcheck.illion.com.au/

Credit reporting bodies may hold different information about you, so you should request a copy of your credit report from each credit reporting body. For instructions on how to access your credit reports, see https://financialrights.org.au/factsheets/your-credit-report-factsheet/

If you notice anything unusual on your credit report, RLC’s credit and debt specialists can give you free and confidential legal advice. Contact us on 02 9698 7277 or visit www.rlc.org.au/contact. 

See also:  What does the Optus data breach mean for you and how can you protect yourself? A step-by-step guide (The Conversation, 26 September 2022)