If your identity is stolen:

• File a report at the Australian Cyber Security Centre.

• Contact the three major Australian credit reporting agencies Equifax, Illion and Experian, and obtain a free copy of your credit file.

• Place a ban on your credit file with those agencies — this can stop criminals accessing credit in your name.

• Advise your bank and review your security arrangements.

• Update your online banking, email and other passwords — use unique passwords for each account.

• Set up multi-factor authentication — where possible don't just use SMS, use something like an authenticator app.  This is to limit the damage done by SIM swaps and phone porting.

• Monitor your phone closely — if it suddenly stops working it may have been ported.

• Contact IDcare — they have trained counsellors who can support you.