Cyber Security HQ answer your questions | Cyber Smart Week 2026

You've got questions, and the Cyber Security Team has the intel.
 
We've received some great questions recently, so we're opening the classified files and sharing the answers in today's Cyber Smart Week post.

 
Q: What information can I share with AI?

A: Before handing over any intel, make sure you know who you're sharing it with. Think carefully about what you're comfortable sharing with AI tools. Depending on the tool and its settings, information you enter, including text, documents, photos and videos, may be stored or used to train AI models.

Q: I’m often told I should use long, unique passwords and change them for each account. How do I keep track of them all? And how do I safely sync passwords across mobile and desktop devices?

A: Using a long, unique password for each account is one of the best ways to limit what cyber criminals can access if a password is stolen. The best way to keep track of your passwords is through a password manager.
There are many password managers out there, each with different features and pros / cons. A few password managers we recommend are Bitwarden, 1Password, Dashlane, and Proton Pass.

Q: Are Face ID and fingerprint authentication actually secure?

A: Yes. For normal everyday use, device biometrics like face and fingerprint recognition are a great security control. Your device also needs a strong PIN or passcode as a backup, because your passcode may be used if biometric authentication isn't available.

Q: I’m often asked for my credit card information when making purchases or reservations over the phone. Is this safe to provide?

A: Sometimes, but first you need to verify who's on the other end of the line. Providing credit card details over the phone can be safe when you're confident you're dealing with a legitimate business that handles payment information securely. If someone calls you unexpectedly and asks for card details, don't provide them. Hang up and call the organisation back using a phone number you already trust, such as the number on its official website or on a business card. If you think you've given your card details to a scammer, contact your bank immediately using a trusted number and keep an eye on your transactions.

Q: What can I do about all the spam and scam calls I get?

Tired of mysterious callers? Your phone can screen your incoming calls.

For iPhones, head to Settings, then Apps, then Phone, and look for Screen Unknown Callers. Depending on your iPhone and software version, you may have different options to choose from.

For Samsung phones, open your Phone app settings and look for Caller ID and spam protection. If available, turn it on and enable Block spam and scam calls. Depending on your phone, you may have options to choose from. Make sure important numbers are saved in your contacts so you don't accidentally miss their calls.