The Cyber Wardens: Safe AI for Small Business course is both worthwhile and easy to follow. It provides a clear understanding of how artificial intelligence is already being used in business, and how cyber criminals are using it too. The course is practical, relevant, and full of useful tips that can be applied straight away.
AI is Already Part of Everyday Business
Many of us are using AI without even realising it. From email filters and fraud alerts to automatic replies, these tools are built into systems we use every day. They can help save time, reduce admin, and improve accuracy, which is a real benefit for small business owners.
Cybercriminals are Using AI Too
One of the most important takeaways was how AI is changing the way scams work. Emails are now much more convincing, fake phone calls sound real, and deepfake videos are being used to trick people. It is harder to tell what is real and what is not, so it’s more important than ever to be cautious.
Small Actions Can Make a Big Difference
The course focuses on changes that are simple but effective . Setting up multi-factor authentication, verifying requests by phone, and double-checking email addresses are all easy habits to build. One tip to take note of is having a code word to confirm anything unusual with your team.
AI Tools Can Be Helpful When Used Carefully
This is not about avoiding AI. In fact, the course shows how AI can support your business when used thoughtfully. It can help manage bookings, flag suspicious activity, and even assist with customer communication. The key is to stay in control of what information you share and where.
Everyday Habits Are Worth Reviewing
The course highlights a few everyday practices that can quietly open the door to cyber risks. Things like using public Wi-Fi for work accounts or forgetting to log out of sensitive platforms might seem harmless, but they can create vulnerabilities. It is a good reminder to be a bit more intentional with how and where you access important information. Small changes, such as using secure connections and logging out properly, can make a real difference.
Some Industries Need Extra Care
If your business handles financial or personal data, such as in bookkeeping, accounting, or payroll, the risks are even higher. The course includes advice specific to these areas, such as verifying all payment instructions by phone, using multi-factor authentication for financial systems, and keeping your software updated to close off weak points.
If Something Goes Wrong
The course also explains what to do if you are hacked or if your identity is stolen. It covers who to contact, how to secure your accounts, and where to report incidents. Knowing these steps in advance can help you stay calm and take the right action quickly.
Final Thoughts
For small business owners unsure where to start with cybersecurity or how AI fits in, this course is a strong starting point. It’s clear, practical, and highlights where the real risks are. The recommended changes are straightforward but can make a big difference. It doesn’t take long to complete and provides a solid understanding of what to look out for and how to respond.
Where to Find Support
IDCARE: An independent not-for-profit and the only service of its kind globally, offering expert support and frontline insights into scams, identity theft, and cybercrime. Visit IDCARE’s website: www.idcare.org
Australian Cyber Security Centre: The ACSC is the government’s lead agency for cybersecurity, providing threat intelligence, incident response, and technical guidance to protect Australian businesses, individuals, and critical infrastructure from cyber threats.
Report a cybercrime, incident or vulnerability: Report and recover | Cyber.gov.au
