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Scams: How to protect personal information

3 min read

THE circulation of scams is becoming all too overwhelming and having social media at our fingertips doesn’t help the situation. We're all using technology in some way or another, whether it be use of a mobile device, computer, or tablet – so the team at In2 Technology in Wonthaggi are warning consumers to not be complacent when it comes to providing personal information.

Owner of In2 Technology Mark Lamers has over 12 years’ experience in the industry, alongside his tech specialist Ryan Spatz and the two shared that ‘we are all at risk of being scammed, whether it be through a phone call, text message, email or online shopping – don’t be frightened by it, it’s just crucial that we all take extra precaution in every situation.”

“If you were sent an email link but weren’t expecting a package – don’t click on the link,” said Mark.

“The Aus Post and Linkt text messages are ones that have caught people off guard.”

“A new online shopping platform, Temu should also be avoided at all costs,” said Ryan “Yes, you’ll receive your items, but your personal information is at risk of being sold on,” said Ryan.

Mark and Ryan work day-to-day helping consumers combat viruses and avoid scams. Together they provide locals with tech support, data recovery, virus removal and PC health checks.

Servicing the town of Bass Coast and the South Gippsland region for the past 15 months, In2 Technology are located in the Wonthaggi arcade for instore advice, but also provide in home tech support for custom PC builds, gaming builds and mobile and tablet repairs.

“We provide secure antivirus software and can scan any device that may have been compromised,” said Mark.

In the current day and age, technology is a part of everyday, so Mark and Ryan shared that it’s important to prevent scams from happening in the first place. “Don’t provide personal information over the phone, never allow those over the phone to get remote access to your device, don’t fill out online surveys on Facebook or any social media platform – these are all ways for scammers to gather personal information for passwords etc.,” Mark said.

“And certainly, don’t sign up to anything that is ‘free’,” said Ryan.

“If you’re not paying for the service, you are the service – meaning you’re willing giving out personal information that could potentially be sold off to third parties.”

Mark accentuated that it’s so important to have two-factor authentication on all devices to provide that extra level of security.

In2 Technology provide friendly, expert advice on computer sales, mobile sales and new device set up, as well as mobile repairs and tablet repairs. “We always back up everything to ensure nothing on the device is lost,” said Mark.

Mobile and tablet repairs include, new screens, screen protection, data recovery and tech support including backing up photos, and ensuring the device is working efficiently.

The team can also provide that extra level of protection on a device for those underage - to avoid explicit content appearing on the screen, as well as restrict any apps, or provide screen limits to help monitor screen time. This software ensures all devices are used safely and appropriately for all ages.

In2 Technology is located at Shop H 140 Graham Street, Wonthaggi or visit them online at www.In2Technology.com.au.