A new government report has revealed that over 40% of Australians have been targeted by multiple cybercrimes, ranging from identity theft to phishing attacks.
The survey, conducted by Australia’s Cyber Security Centre, found that online fraud and scams were the most common, followed by ransomware attacks and data breaches. Experts warned that digital criminals are increasingly using artificial intelligence and deepfake technology to launch more sophisticated scams.
Officials estimate that cybercrime is now costing the Australian economy billions annually, with small businesses and individuals being the most vulnerable. Many victims reported not just financial loss but also psychological stress and reputational damage.
In response, the Australian government has announced new investments in cyber defense infrastructure, including partnerships with private tech firms and stricter regulations on data handling by companies.
Authorities are also urging citizens to improve digital hygiene — including using strong passwords, enabling multi-factor authentication, and avoiding suspicious links.
