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Act Now Stay Secure Campaign: Stay Safe Online

24 March 2026
Cyber Security Dog outside his display tent

With a cybercrime reported every six minutes, there’s simple things we can all do to keep our personal information and online accounts safe.

The Act Now. Stay Secure. campaign is helping communities across the country to learn simple ways to stay safe online. Led by the Australian Government, the campaign reminds us that taking small steps today can protect ourselves in the future. 

Staying connected online can help with sharing stories, keeping in touch with family, community and culture. As people spend more time online, it’s more important than ever to protect ourselves against cybercrime.

The Act Now. Stay Secure. team have been raising awareness about cyber security alongside their mascot the Cyber Security Dog, at  several First Nation’s events across Australia including the Yabun Festival on Gadigal Land, the Koori Knockout on Gomeroi Country, The Murri Carnival on Yugarabul country, to the Barunga Festival on Bagala country and the Mt. Isa Rodeo in the traditional lands of the Kalkadoon people. 

Proud Badulaig descendant and cyber security expert Jack Reis, from Badu Island in the Torres Strait, is urging First Nations people and communities to take a few, simple steps to combat cybercriminals and keep themselves safe online.

“We hear so much in the news about dodgy computer viruses and hackers stealing our info that it can make us scared to do anything online,” he said.

“The fact is, we all spend so much time online, so whether you’re sharing stories, banking, or checking in on mob through socials, it’s important to protect your information and your identity. Cyber security isn’t just a city issue – it’s a community issue that affects us all, including those in regional and remote areas”. 

There are three key actions everyone can take to stay safe online:

  • always set up multi-factor authentication when available;
  • use unique and strong passphrases for every account; and
  • install all software updates as soon as they are available to keep your devices secure.

Cyber security is everyone’s business. Whether we are helping others such as Elders check an email, setting up a new phone for a family member or managing our own online security, every small action helps build a safer community. 

For more information on how to protect you and your loved ones online, visit Act Now. Stay Secure.

Cyber Security Dog in front of the tent