Cyber safety for South Australian businesses

Posted on 13/08/2025

Think cybercrime won’t happen to you? Think again. Protect your business from cyber scams – here’s how.

Let’s be honest – we’re all juggling a million things at once. Whether you’re running a local café, managing a busy team or working solo, dealing with cyber scams probably isn’t high on your to-do list.

But here’s the thing: scammers are hoping you feel that way.

That’s why Crime Stoppers SA and OpSys have teamed up to help South Australian businesses protect themselves from two of the most common – and costly – online scams out there:

• Invoice Fraud
• Business Email Compromise (BEC)

These scams are sneaky, they’re clever and they’re costing Australian businesses millions each year.

So… what are we actually talking about?

Business Email Compromise (BEC) – is where scammers pretend to be someone you trust – your boss, your bookkeeper even a long-term supplier. They’ll send you a very convincing email asking for a payment, or a change to bank account details. It might look completely normal… but it’s not.

Invoice Fraud – is when a scammer sends you a fake invoice – or worse, intercepts a real one and changes the payment details. You think you’ve paid your supplier, but your money’s actually gone to a scammer. Ouch.

It’s happening right here in South Australia

These aren’t just scary scenarios from overseas. We’ve seen real SA businesses lose tens of thousands of dollars in a single click – from regional suppliers to city-based corporates.

The scams are getting smarter and harder to spot. So, we’re making it easier to stay one step ahead.

Simple things you can do today

You don’t need to be a tech expert or have an IT team at the ready to protect your business. A few small changes can make a big difference.

Here’s where to start:

• Pause before you pay – if you get a request to change bank details or make an urgent payment, stop and check.
• Pick up the phone – call the person using a number you already know – not the one in the email.
• Use multi-factor authentication – that’s the thing where you get a code on your phone. It adds an extra layer of protection.
• Talk to your team – make sure your staff know how to spot dodgy emails and feel confident saying, “Something’s not right.”
• Update your systems – those annoying software update pop-ups? They matter.

Something feel off?

If something doesn’t look or feel right – report it. You can do it anonymously by calling 1800 333 000 or going online at crimestopperssa.com.au

Every report helps stop scammers in their tracks – and might just save the next business from falling into the same trap.

CYBER SAFETY TOOLKIT FOR SA BUSINESSES

A practical resource pack to help you stay secure

Our toolkit is designed to support South Australian business owners, managers and staff in preventing cybercrime. Whether you’re in hospitality, trades, retail, agriculture or an office-based business – this is for you.

What’s available:

• Local scam examples to raise awareness
• Printable checklists for daily use
• Quick training tips for staff meetings and onboarding

This toolkit is a joint initiative between Crime Stoppers South Australia and OpSys, helping South Australian businesses build strong cyber defences and avoid becoming the next victim of cybercrime.

Protect your business. Empower your people. Report what you know.

Click on an image below for a downloadable pdf version.

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