Australia Cybercrime Statistics – Updated: 2023

Cybercrime is a growing global challenge, and Australia is no exception. With the increased use of digital technologies in everyday life, cybercriminals have found new opportunities to target innocent victims for their own gain. In recent years, incidents of cybercrime in Australia have risen exponentially, leaving many feeling vulnerable and exposed.

According to the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC), Australians are at risk from malicious actors using tactics such as phishing emails, ransomware attacks, online frauds and scams, data breaches and identity theft. These threats can be both financially costly and emotionally damaging for those affected by them.

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to protect yourself from becoming a victim of cybercrime in Australia. This article will discuss some key statistics related to cybercrime in Australia so that you can get a better understanding of your risks when it comes to this type of crime.

1. In 2022, there were nearly 76,000 reports of cybercrime in Australia. This marked an increase of 13% from the previous year.

2. 30% of Australians have been victims of online fraud and scams over the past year.

3. In 2022, financial losses due to online scams reached a record high of $292.9 million for the year.

4. Fraud-related is the most common form of cybercrime in Australia, accounting for more than 23% of all incidents reported to the ACSC.

5. The average cost with an increase of 9.8% from 2019 of a data breach in 2020 was $3.35 million per breach.

6. The total cost of cybercrime in Australia was estimated to be over $1 billion per year (according to the Australian Institute of Criminology) in 2022.

7. In 2022, almost 11% of Australians stated that their personal information had been misused in the past year.

8. In 2021, the Australian government reported a 63% rise in reports of cyberbullying.

Steps to Take Against Cybercrime

Taking steps to protect yourself is the best way to reduce your risk of becoming a victim of cybercrime in Australia. Some key actions you can take include:

1. Using strong passwords and two-factor authentication on all your accounts

2. Avoiding clicking links or downloading attachments from unknown sources

3. Running regular updates on your computer and software

4. Keeping an eye on your credit report

5. Ensuring you have backups of all important documents and data

6. Reporting any suspicious activity to the ACSC

By following these steps, individuals can minimise their risk of becoming a victim of cybercrime in Australia, helping to spread awareness about this increasingly significant issue.

By staying informed about the latest cybercrime statistics and taking measures to protect yourself, you can reduce your risk of becoming a victim of this type of crime. Remember, knowledge is power when it comes to cybersecurity.

Conclusion

These statistics show just how prevalent cybercrime is in Australia and the magnitude of its impact. It’s important to stay vigilant when it comes to protecting yourself online, as malicious actors are constantly looking for new ways to target unsuspecting victims. By understanding your risks and taking steps to protect yourself, you can reduce your chances of becoming a victim. With the right knowledge and awareness, Australians can help defend against cybercrime together.