Optus data breach
30 September 2022
Essentials by AAI is aware of the recently announced data breach impacting current and former Optus customers. While this data breach has not impacted any of our systems, Essentials by AAI encourages impacted customers to maintain a heightened level of awareness around your insurance activity and to contact us immediately if you have any concerns. If you would like assistance with updating any of your insurance credentials, please call us on 1800 429 598.
Please visit Equifax.com.au for information on securing your credit file.
Please visit IDcare.org for further information on securing your Identity.
Please visit Scamwatch.com.au for further information on scams and Identity theft.
How to spot a hoax
Look out for these common mistakes or differences when you receive a suspicious email or SMS message:
- Poor grammar and spelling (although sometimes they can be grammatically perfect!).
- Links to web addresses that look different from what you normally see (although there are ways to make links appear legitimate).
- Receiving SMS messages or emails from Essentials by AAI that are inconsistent with previous correspondence or contact.
- Urgent appeals for help or personal details (like credit card or account numbers, PIN numbers or passwords).
- The look of your computer has changed and/or opens up websites automatically that you don’t normally visit.
Tips to protect yourself
- Never give your login details to another person or company.
- Be wary of emails from any email addresses that you don’t know or trust. Delete any emails you think are suspicious.
- Never click onto a link or an attachment in an email, obtained from a source you don’t know or trust.
- Don’t install “missing software” from a link in an email or SMS.
- Never provide your personal or security details, including Customer ID or passwords, in response to any email or phone call. Essentials by AAI will never request this information from you via email.
- Always scan any new programs or files for viruses before you open, install or use them. Your anti-virus software may do this for you automatically.
- If your anti-virus detects a virus or malware and removes it, ensure that you update any passwords you may use on that computer.
- We recommend visiting the ACCC ScamWatch for latest news and alerts in your area.
What to do if you’re suspicious of an email
- If you receive a suspicious email appearing to have been sent by Essentials by AAI, DON’T click on any links or attachments in the email.
- Forward the email to us at security@suncorp.com.au.
If you suspect you have responded to a fraudulent email or been a victim of fraud, contact Essentials by AAI immediately on 1800 429 598