ASIC has recently issued an alert warning investors to be on high alert following a significant increase in reports of stolen shares since August 2024 from people who have had their personal identity compromised (available here). 

Investors are encouraged to be vigilant with security protocols when disclosing personal information by:

• Reviewing your share portfolios regularly, so you’re quicker to detect unauthorised activity;
• Turning on two-factor authentication, which can add an extra layer of security;
• Registering for a PO Box or lock your letterbox to help prevent mail theft;
• Ensuring you have provided your most up-to-date contact details to your stockbroker, share registries, and financial services providers, and;
• If you receive a new bank card or correspondence that is unexpected, like an update on how your shares are held, the creation of a new account, a notification of sale of your shares or confirmation of a change in contact details, don’t ignore the correspondence.

If you have concerns as to your shareholding, please contact Computershare at www.investorcentre.com/au.