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Your role in securing information
Technology and computers cannot safeguard information automatically. You need to protect your own information related to using this service.
The Commonwealth accepts no liability for any interference with or damage to a user's computer system, software or data occurring in connection with or relating to this website or its use. Users are encouraged to take appropriate and adequate precautions to ensure that whatever is selected from this site is free of viruses or other contamination that may interfere with or damage the user's computer system, software or data.
Our security responsibilities
We will ensure that:
- the data you give us will be safe
- we use encryption to protect your Online Services login
- your data will be stored at a secure facility
- Regular backups of data are performed to ensure it can be recovered in case of a disaster
- all access to the system is logged. If any unauthorised behaviour should occur, this will assist us in identifying and resolving the issue
AFSA ICT security practices and procedures are governed by whole-of-government standards and guidelines including the:
Read about Access Security and Data Security in the Terms and Conditions of use for the Online Services.
Protecting your computer
You should:
- Install and activate security software on your computer. Ensure your security software includes anti-virus, anti-spyware, firewall and anti-spam filter.
- Run regular scans of your computer for viruses
- Remember to update your security software to ensure you are always running the current version
Other steps you should take help protect your computer include:
- Check your Internet browser's security settings for ways to make your browsing more secure
- Do not open email attachments if you do not know the sender
- Only download files from reputable Internet sites
- Be wary when exchanging files with colleagues or friends
- Never click on hyperlinks in emails received from unknown sources
Protecting your password
Some AFSA websites and applications may require you to use a password. You should:
- Never share your password with anyone
- AFSA staff do not need to ask for your password
- If you think that your user account has been compromised change your password immediately
- Never send your password via email
- Make your password as strong as possible
Contact us to report any suspicious or unauthorised activity.
Read more about online security