The nation-leading ID Support NSW team is helping save customer information from malicious actors by identifying credentials which have been stolen from personal devices by malicious software (malware) attacks and posted on the dark web.
Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Victor Dominello said the Department of Customer Service ID Support NSW team was working closely with Cyber Security NSW, the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) and NSW Police to monitor the dark web.
"We are in a war with cyber criminals and in most instances customers wouldn't be aware their details had been stolen from their phones or laptops and put on the dark web," Mr Dominello said.
"This can happen when malware is inadvertently installed on a device after visiting a dodgy website or clicking on an unsafe link.
"We set up ID Support NSW to ensure we could streamline the process to remedy compromised credentials in the instance they had been stolen or misused.
"In a national first, where ID Support NSW does find information on the dark web, they will now proactively notify people and work with them to remove the malware, remedy their credentials and protect their information."
NSW Chief Cyber Security Officer Tony Chapman said personal information can find its way to the dark web through scam emails, fake websites and malware being installed on browsers.
"We are monitoring illegal marketplaces on the internet for data sets that contain personal information of NSW customers that could be used for identity misuse or fraud," Mr Chapman said.
"Details such as passwords that have been saved on personal computers or stored on key chains by individuals are particularly vulnerable.
"Please be cautious when opening emails and text messages. If you are unsure the message is legitimate, contact the sending organisation using details listed on the organisation's website."
ID Support NSW encourages customers to avoid saving their log-in credentials and passwords unless they have a trusted password manager system.
ID Support NSW also provides education and advice to raise awareness of identity theft and is working to expand its services in 2022 to help with other personal information.
Customers who fear they have had their information stolen are encouraged to contact ID Support NSW's free call number 1800 001 040 which is available Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm, NSW time or you can also use the online form 24-hours a day.
Customers can get advice and guidance on how to deal with compromised documents, how to keep their information safe, and how to access additional support such as counselling.
