Online security
As scams and frauds continue to rise in Australia and around the world, it’s more important than ever to protect yourself online and keep your super secure.
Learn about the actions you can take to protect your privacy and identity.
1. Protect yourself online
We take cybersecurity very seriously and are continuously taking measures to protect our systems, so your information stays safe. However, there are additional things you can do to make sure your accounts remain secure.
Login to your online accounts regularly or set regular reminders to make sure your details are up to date and that any transactions are accurate. You can access your accounts with us through Member Online.
A strong password is at least eight characters long with a combination of numbers, letters and symbols. It’s important to use different passwords for different accounts and keep your passwords protected – don’t share any details.
Make sure you have the relevant security software and keep it up to date. Enable security options like multi-factor authentication (MFA) on as many devices as possible.
When you use your online accounts such as Member Online, don't use a public computer or public wi-fi internet connection if you can help it. Always log out of your account and close your browser when you've finished.
For the best web browser security, use the latest versions of supported web browsers to access and log in to Member Online. Find out more about Member Online system requirements.
Don’t click on unsolicited emails, engage in telephone calls with someone you don’t know or can’t verify their identity, or respond to suspicious SMS messages.
You can identify a scam, or ‘phishing’ email by:
- Misspelled words or incorrect grammar
- Links that take you directly to your online account
- Unfamiliar sender or company
- Suspicious attachments
- Requests for your personal information, login credentials or payment information
- Messages ordering you to act urgently or within a limited time
- Offers that are ‘too good to be true’
If you receive emails that seem legitimate, go to the company website without clicking any links, or call them directly using numbers listed on their website.
GESB won't send you an email or SMS containing a link to Member Online unless you've requested a change such as a change of password or email address.
We will never contact you asking for personal information or login credentials.
Check your privacy and security settings on all your accounts, including your social media accounts.
Whenever a site asks for your email address, read their privacy policy or statement first.
Our Privacy Statement explains how we protect the privacy of your personal information.
2. How to spot a scam
Here are some red flags that are worth investigating1:
- Despite having good credit, you are refused a service, credit card or loan
- A phone contract has been set up in your name without your knowledge
- You are notified of unauthorised activity on an account
- You apply for a government benefit but are told you are already claiming
- You have not received any mail from your bank, or expected mail has not arrived
- Items appear on your bank or credit card statements that you don’t recognise
- You receive invoices or bills for goods or services you haven’t purchased
- You receive letters from debt collectors or solicitors for debts that aren’t yours
- Despite having good credit, you are refused a service, credit card or loan
- A phone contract has been set up in your name without your knowledge
- You are notified of unauthorised activity on an account
- You apply for a government benefit but are told you are already claiming
Report a scam
We encourage you to report any suspicious incidents to the police and/or the Australian Cyber Security Centre:
- Report a cybercrime through the ReportCyber website
- Submit an online form through SCAMWatch
If the incident is related to GESB or your super more broadly, please report it to us by calling 13 43 72.
3. What to do if you’re concerned about your account
If you believe you’ve been a victim of online identity fraud in relation to your super account, or if there’s been a change to your contact details that you didn’t request:
- Call your Member Services Centre on 13 43 72. We can flag your account and provide additional support and guidance
- Change your passwords as soon as possible
Important note
If you receive a SMS from us confirming super money withdrawal or a rollover that you haven’t requested, please call us immediately so we can stop the transaction.
Get help and guidance
There are several organisations that can provide you with support and guidance:
- IDCARE, Australia and New Zealand’s national identity and cyber support service, connects you to an expert who can provide advice on how to respond to data breaches, scams, identity theft and cybersecurity concerns
- SCAMWatch provides information about new types of identity crime and emerging scams
- Further resources to help you protect your identity and personal information can be found at the Australian Cyber Security Centre’s website, including the Recover and get help page
- The ATO’s Scam alert page provides examples of recent ATO impersonation scams
1 Financial crimes member guidance, Link Group, March 2023.
More information
Need help
- Call us on 13 43 72
- Use Live chat
Thank you for printing this page. Remember to come back to gesb.wa.gov.au for the latest information as our content is updated regularly. This information is correct as at 27 April 2024.