Check that the web address looks legitimate

Phishing websites often imitate website addresses (URLs) to create the illusion that you're on a legitimate website. To check if a website has a legitimate URL, look for slight variations, misspellings or additional characters in the URL. For example, my0b.com or rnyob.com instead of myob.com.

You can also check for the secure HTTPS connection. To check the HTTPS connection, click the padlock symbol in the top left corner of your browser. You should see a URL that matches the legitimate website and a message about a secure connection:

You shouldn't see this (connection not secure):

Check that the website looks legitimate

Compare the design and layout of the website with the official website. Look for inconsistencies, such as variations in colours, fonts, logos or overall design. Phishing websites may have poor-quality graphics, distorted images or irregularities that indicate a fraudulent copy.

Be wary of urgent requests

Phishing websites and emails often use alarming messages to create a sense of urgency. They may claim your account has been compromised or that immediate action is required. Be cautious of such requests and independently verify the legitimacy of the message through trusted channels, such as your usual method of navigating to your MYOB application or contacting customer support. Here's an example of a fake MYOB email asking for immediate action:

Be wary of unexpected emails or messages

Phishing attempts often begin with unsolicited emails, text messages or social media messages. Be sceptical of any message that asks for personal or sensitive information, especially if it redirects you to a website. Learn how to identify a typical, legitimate MYOB invoice email or SMS.

How to avoid clicking on links to untrustworthy websites

If the message has a linkWhen you receive an email or message with links, you can check the address (URL) for where it'll take you – without clicking on it – by hovering over it. Instead of clicking on links in a message, you can manually type the URL of the website you wish to visit into your browser or use bookmarked links. Learn how to identify a typical, legitimate MYOB invoice email or SMS.

Here's an example of a fake MYOB email that appears to be linking you to MYOB, but it is taking you to another website:

Trust your intuition on suspicious websites

If something feels suspicious or too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your instincts and exercise caution when interacting with websites that raise doubts. If you have any concerns about the legitimacy of a website, refrain from providing any personal information and report the suspicious activity to your organisation's IT or security team.

Change your passwords

Immediately change the password for the compromised account and any other accounts that share the same or similar passwords. Choose strong, unique passwords that include a combination of letters, numbers and special characters.

Enable two-factor authentication

MYOB software uses two-factor authentication. If you haven't already set it up, do so right away. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second verification step, such as a code sent to your mobile device, in addition to your password. Avoid using email as your method of 2FA. Use an authenticator app or SMS instead as these methods are more secure.

Check for suspicious activity

Review your account activity and transaction history to identify any unauthorised access or suspicious activity. Look for unfamiliar login locations, unrecognised transactions or changes to your account settings.

Report the incident to MYOB

Log into My Account and submit a support ticket by clicking Contact Support.