Online Security

June 05, 2024

Helping You Stay Safe Online
At Future Assist, your online security is our top priority. However, it’s crucial that you take basic precautions when using the internet and online banking to protect your identity, information, and finances.

What Should I Do If I’ve Fallen Victim to Fraud on My Future Assist Account?
Contact us immediately at clients@futureassist.com.au or phone 1300 118 618 if you believe you may be a victim of fraud. For any security matters on your Future Assist home loan account, please contact Origin Mortgage Management Services directly on 1300 767 023 or visit originmms.com.au/contact-us/

What We Are Doing to Protect You
We prioritise the confidentiality and security of your financial information and transactions. Our team continually reviews and updates our infrastructure and security measures, including firewalls and encryption technology, to meet our stringent security requirements.

What you Need to Do to Protect Yourself
While we place the highest priority on your online security, you must also take some basic precautions when using the internet and banking online. Here are some best practices to keep your information secure:

  • Secure Your Online Email Account
    Activate two-factor authentication on public email accounts like Gmail, Yahoo, MSN, or Live. This free service sends a special code via SMS every time you log in, protecting your email and the personal information stored within.
  • Install a Personal Firewall Product
    Hackers can infect home computers by connecting to them while you’re online. Protect your computer from unauthorised connections by installing a personal firewall, which acts as a security guard, restricting what can enter and leave your computer. Several options are available, some of which are free.
  • Regularly Use and Update Antivirus Software
    Antivirus products can scan for spyware and adware. Since viruses often come through email attachments, use an antivirus product to protect yourself and never open attachments from untrusted sources. Schedule regular scans to detect and clean out any viruses.
  • Do Not Open Unsolicited Emails with Attachments
    These may contain viruses. Ignore emails asking you to “reply to unsubscribe” as this can confirm your email address to spammers. Review Your “Sent Items” Folder If you find messages sent without your knowledge, your computer may have a virus or have been compromised.
  • Update Your Operating System and Browser
    Ensure your computer software has all necessary security updates. It’s best to set this up automatically.
  • Ensure No Unauthorized Access to Your Computer
    Destroy or delete anything containing login details or security information, even if it was sent by us.
  • Never Share Your Security Information
    Only enter your Future Assist client details when logging in at FutureAssist.com.au. Do not save login details or passwords on your computer and disable prompts asking to remember this information.
  • Avoid Reusing Security Information
    Create and use different passwords for each service provided by us, another Future Assist member, or other service providers.
  • Don’t Leave Your Computer Unattended
    Always log out when you’re done using Future Assist client portals.
  • Change Your Passwords Regularly
    Avoid using familiar names, numbers, and places such as birthdays and phone numbers.
  • Be Aware of ‘Shoulder-Surfers’
    Shoulder surfing refers to people who observe you entering personal information. Be cautious in crowded places and protect your PIN and passwords.
  • Protect Your Printed Information
    Shred or destroy any personal documents you don’t need, including statements from financial institutions, shops, and utility bills.

Identity Theft

Your identity is valuable, but over 100,000 people fall victim to identity theft each year.

Identity theft occurs when a fraudster steals your personal or financial details to impersonate you, open bank accounts, obtain credit, or set up businesses. Be suspicious if you notice any of the following:

  • Bills, invoices, or receipts for goods or services you didn’t order.
  • Letters from solicitors or debt collection agencies about debts that aren’t yours
  • Letters or statements for bank accounts you did not open
  • Unrecognised transactions on your bank statements
  • New accounts on your credit report
  • Missing documents like your passport, driving license, utility bills, or bank statements

If you’ve been a victim of identity fraud, act quickly. Don’t ignore the problem, as bad debts will end up under your name and address.