A small tech business, Baidam, is on a mission to take down scam websites.
Together with Infoblox Inc., the cybersecurity provider has launched a new takedown service that can remove scam websites within days.
The service uses the Domain Name System (DNS) to take down lookalike websites and scam domains. Such scam websites mimic the domains of organisations for criminal activities, such as tricking users into inputting sensitive information.
According to a 2023 Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) report, Australians lost almost three billion dollars to scammers last year. Fraudulent websites of the type Baidam removes are a big part of the problem.
“We’re seeing internet fraud playing a more prominent role in how cybercriminals infiltrate organisations in Australia,” said Scott Morris, Infoblox ANZ Managing Director. “Our takedown service helps companies neutralise fraudulent domains impersonating them for criminal activities.”
The mission to defend new internet users
Fraudulent websites are a threat to all organisations. Small businesses have been urged to remain vigilant to the risks they pose.
However, Baidam’s founder, Jack Reis (pictured above), is particularly concerned about Indigenous and regional businesses. Reis, himself a proud Badulaig descendant, highlighted that these groups could be particularly vulnerable to internet fraud. This is because they are more likely to operate in areas that have not long been connected to the internet.
“There are parts of Australia where the internet is very new, or not available yet at all,” he said. “It’s one of the most important resources we can bring to the bush, but lack of experience and education on cybersecurity and online scams can leave indigenous people and businesses more vulnerable.”
A 2023 ACCC report highlighted First Nations people reported almost double the number of scams in 2023 compared with 2022. Baidam, itself an Indigenous-owned company, now provides pathways for Indigenous Australians to become cyber leaders.
“Together with Infoblox, we’re committed to helping organisations across Australia maintain a secure and trustworthy online presence and quickly mitigate the impact of fraudulent or lookalike websites,” said Reis.
