Protect your privacy online

You can help Centrelink to protect your privacy online by ensuring that you take some simple precautions.

• Securing your passwords and Customer Access Number (CAN)
• Securing your computer against viruses and other security risks
• Checking your browser's security settings when you log on
• Receiving telephone calls from Centrelink Staff
• More information

Securing your passwords and Customer Access Number (CAN)

Note: Centrelink never emails customers to request their online services details.

If you receive an email asking you to confirm or supply your Customer Access Number (CAN) or password, please delete the email without clicking on any links, or opening any attachments.

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Securing your computer against viruses and other security risks

Centrelink is aware of programs circulated through the Internet that, without your knowledge, can install themselves on your computer and capture your personal details. These programs can then forward your personal information, to another computer where it may be used by people for their own reasons.

Protect your privacy when you are online by ensuring that the computer you use is secure against viruses, Trojans and other security risks.

To find out more about Internet security, you can type "Internet Security" into your Internet search engine. For advice on general Internet security measures visit these sites:

• NetAlert website
• AOEMA SafetyNet website

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Checking your browser's security settings when you log on

When you log on to online services, look for the "padlock" icon in your browser screen. The "padlock" indicates that you are entering a page with security features. To find out more about the security certificates built into the page click on the "padlock" icon.

Here are some screenshot examples of the "padlock" icon (indicated by the red arrow) taken from various browsers:

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Receiving telephone calls from Centrelink Staff

From time-to-time, you may receive a call from a staff member. If you are unsure that the person on the telephone might not be from Centrelink, you can ask the staff member for their name and you can contact us to confirm.

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More information

For more information on how we maintain and enhance the privacy and security of your personal information, you can:

• view our privacy and security statement
• read the Your Right to Privacy factsheet
• visit your nearest Centrelink Customer Service Centre
• send a message online to Centrelink.

For general information about how to safely use the Internet view the Stay Smart Online website.

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