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Google search scam

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Beware of fake advertisements on Google searches.  

What is the scam? 

Scammers are using Google’s paid advertisements to try and trick people into downloading malicious software or clicking on a fake URL to infect your device and/or steal your credentials. 

How can you protect yourself?

Work devices

  • Always install software from the UQ Software Centre.

Personal devices

  • Use anti-malware software.
  • Use official app stores to download apps, updates and modifications.
  • If you search online for software, be extremely careful.

What to do if you have (or think you have) fallen victim?

Work devices

Personal devices

  • If you think your device has been infected with malware, disconnect it from your Wi-Fi network and scan your device using anti-malware software. If malware is found, contact a reputable IT service provider.
  • If you have entered log-in credentials, change your password immediately. If you have used that password across multiple accounts, ensure you change your password for each account. See Use Secure Passwords for more information.
  • Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) on all accounts where possible. See MFA for more information.
  • Report the scam to the ACCC Scamwatch. This helps warn others about current scams and disrupts scams where possible.
  • If your personal information has been put at risk, contact IDCare for support.