Northern Territory Police are urging businesses to update their anti-virus software and be aware of an invoice email scam that has defrauded a Northern Territory businessman of more than $65,000.

Senior Constable Daniel Schultz from the Technology and Economic Crime Section said the businessman reported the theft after being informed his ongoing payment to a client was not being received.

“It appears an email system was compromised and the offenders have continued to use his business tax invoices to request payment from existing clients into a new account.

“The man was completely unaware of the email requests and conversations between the offenders and his clients via email until his business associate requested outstanding monies be paid.”

Senior Constable Schultz said business owners can take control by:

• Activating the two-factor authentication so you are alerted to any attempts to gain access to your personal and business accounts by anyone else other than you.
• Regularly change all passwords on email accounts and computers.
• Install a good security package on your computers/devices and regularly install any updates.
• Email your client base regarding any future emails they receive about change of bank details and tell them to call you to discuss, clarify and confirm details are not a scam.
• If you believe your personal details have been accessed by someone other than you, contact ID Care at www.idcare.org.au or call ID Care on 1300 432 273.

Anyone who believes they may have fallen victim to scammers or if they believe their email/online accounts have been compromised are urged to report it online to ACORN – the Australian Cybercrime Online Reporting Network at www.acorn.gov.au