DFRDB's identity protection strategy
Identity theft occurs when personal identification information is used, without permission, to commit fraud or other crimes. This information may include a person's name, address, date of birth, licence numbers and government identification numbers (such as a Defence Service Number or Tax File Number).
ComSuper takes the responsibility to safeguard your personal information very seriously. The Australian Government have established a number of regulations that ensure Government agencies protect your personal information, including policies on the verification of our Members' identities, the safe storage of hardcopy information and the security of computer networks. ComSuper complies with these requirements and has a rigorous internal control framework that ensures your privacy is protected.
Though the risk of becoming a victim of identity theft in Australia is still relatively small, it is important that all of us understand the potential consequences identity theft can have. Part of our identity protection strategy is to educate our Members on ways they can safeguard themselves. Some simple steps include:
- destroying all identifying information when disposing of personal papers, including bank statements, phone, electricity and gas bills
- not giving out personal information over the phone or by e-mail unless you have initiated the contact or are confident the caller is who they claim to be
- checking accounts and other records carefully, know when accounts are due; a late or missing account could mean a billing address has been changed and your identity has been stolen
- using a separate account with a low credit limit for internet transactions
- if you suspect your personal information has been compromised, call the Reporting Hotline on 6272 9700 or email fraudcontrol@comsuper.gov.au.
Anti-money laundering requirements for Members
Australia's recently introduced Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) Act 2006 (AML/CTF Act) address the possible risk of money laundering and the potential threat to national security caused by the financing of terrorism. These reforms bring Australia into line with the internationally accepted Financial Action Task Force (FATF) standards.
The AML/CTF Act imposes obligations on businesses or individuals offering financial services and can include banks, credit unions, superannuation fund managers, foreign exchange dealers etc.
ComSuper is in the process of implementing a program to comply with the requirement to identify and manage the potential risks of money laundering and terrorism financing. The program is required to be ready by the end of 2008 and reported to the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC).
Though the legislation will have a minimal impact on Members, they can expect to be required to provide documentation (such as a certified copy of their driver's licence) when claiming a benefit. In return, Members will have a greater assurance that measures are in place to protect their benefit from fraud and other financial crimes.