ACSC steps up fight against malicious cyber activity

The Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) is increasing its fight against malicious cyber activity by protecting Australian families and businesses, as well as the health sector, during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Minister for Defence Linda Reynolds said the Australian Signals Directorate, through the ACSC, is engaging with hospitals and health service providers right across the country.

“Hospitals and other health care providers are on the frontline in our fight against COVID-19 and that is why we are working directly with them to reduce their risk of cyber compromise during an already very challenging period,” Minister Reynolds said.

“The ACSC is also providing a second layer of defence in detecting malicious cyber activity on critical federal government department networks, including the Department of Health.”

By collaborating with industry, law enforcement and government partners, the ACSC is identifying and disrupting malicious cyber criminals offshore, who are launching COVID-19 themed cyber scams and phishing attacks against Australian families and businesses.

ACSC head, Abigail Bradshaw, said the centre sees first-hand the devastating impact of cyber crime.

“At the ACSC, we are absolutely committed to making sure Australians remain safe online and our vital services are protected,” Bradshaw said.

“We are arming Australians, businesses and key sectors, like health and medical services, with information on the threats and practical assistance to enable them to better protect themselves against these global cyber criminals.”

For the latest information and advice about how to protect yourself against COVID-19 themed malicious cyber activity, as well as securing remote working and web-conferencing solutions, visit cyber.gov.au.