July 27, 2024 | Loss of Services In the modern digital age, internet connectivity is the lifeline of countless services and operations. When this lifeline is disrupted, as seen in the recent global CrowdStrike incident that affected banks and supermarkets, the ripple effects can be profound. Customers found themselves unable to complete transactions, highlighting the unforeseen importance of having alternative solutions like cash. This incident offers a valuable lesson in preparedness for both individuals and businesses. Here’s what you can do to navigate an internet outage effectively. Understanding the Impact The CrowdStrike incident showcased how dependent we are on internet services. Banks, supermarkets, and various other sectors rely heavily on online connectivity for transactions, inventory management, and communication. An outage can lead to: - Inability to process card payments: Both credit and debit card transactions are halted, causing frustration for customers and potential loss of revenue for businesses. - ATM disruptions: Cash withdrawals and deposits become impossible, leaving customers without access to their funds. - Inventory management issues: Supermarkets and stores that use cloud-based systems for stock management may struggle to track inventory accurately. Immediate Steps for You 1. Keep Cash on Hand: The outage demonstrated the importance of having a cash reserve. While we lean towards a cashless society, having a small amount of cash can be a lifesaver during such disruptions. 2. Use Alternative Payment Methods: Mobile payment solutions that work offline, like certain NFC-based payment apps, can be helpful. Ensure your digital wallet apps are updated and understand which ones offer offline capabilities. 3. Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include essentials like non-perishable food, bottled water, and medications. During an extended outage, this can help you avoid crowded stores and ensure you have the basics covered. 4. Stay Informed: Use battery-powered radios or offline news sources to stay updated on the situation. Social media can be useful but be wary of misinformation.

March 3, 2022| Online Safety Protect Yourself from Scams: A Real-Life Lesson Recently, I got a random call from a salesperson trying to sell me a business card-sized ad in a magazine supporting our emergency services. He claimed my $345 ad (discounted from $440) would greatly benefit the service. Despite never hearing of the publication, I found myself almost convinced, especially when he began sending emails and directing me to websites to validate his claims. He asked me to reply with "I agree" to an email, and I did. But what really raised red flags was when he said a representative would call in 30 minutes to arrange payment. I quickly Googled and discovered it was likely a magazine advertisement scam, where businesses get billed for ads they never receive or in publications with a very limited circulation, contrary to the 14,000 copies he claimed. I immediately replied to the email, attaching an article I found online about such scams, and cancelled the agreement. Later, I got an email from someone else at the organization insisting they weren’t a scam and had been supporting emergency services for 21 years. Despite their assurances, I remained cautious. This week, another unsolicited call came, asking if their email satisfied my concerns. When I declined to proceed, the caller became aggressive, threatening a 50% cancellation fee. Now, I might be dealing with collection agencies over a bogus invoice. How to Protect Yourself from Scams: Research Before You Agree: If you get an unexpected call or email, take time to research the company. Use independent sources to verify their legitimacy. Check Credentials: Verify charities or organizations using their ABN (Australian Business Number) or equivalent. For investments, consult your state securities regulator. Check commercial products with your state ACCC. Hang Up on Suspicious Calls: If you receive calls claiming to be from government bodies or involving emergency services, hang up and contact the organization directly using verified contact information.

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