Warning on cybercrime

RECENT global ransomware attacks must act as a wake-up call for Australia as the digital economy grows, Justice Minister Michael Keenan says.

Speaking at an international conference on cybercrime on the Gold Coast, Mr Keenan says while the WanaCry incident in mid-May and the more recent Petya ransomware incident had not affected Australia greatly, they should serve as a warning.

Mr Keenan said the internet-based economy contributed $79 billion to the Australian economy in 2014 and that total is forecast to grow to $139 billion annually by 2020.

He says the international attacks provide a reminder to all internet users to be vigilant about protecting themselves.