Kevin Green is a Westpac financial crime and anti-fraud professional and will run an online version of the bank’s innovative awareness raising card game ‘Stash the Cash’ that seeks to educate potential victims on common scam and fraud tactics and makes learning fun.
REGISTER NOW TO TAKE PART: 10AM, 24TH FEBRUARY
During a game of Stash the Cash, every player takes turns to scam the other players and it’s a battle to see who finishes with the most money. The scams in the game are based on real scenarios and are designed to educate children and adults. 6 volunteers are sought to take part in this session – please contact us if you are registered and keen to be a player.
The game was developed by Financial Crime and Managing Your Money teams and is being distributed to communities, schools, and workplaces, as well as via the more than 50 SeniorNet learning centres across Aotearoa.
What is your current role and/or your interest in tackling cybercrime?
Up until recently I led Westpac’s fraud analytics team. I have now moved to Technology Risk to diversify my knowledge and focus on another dimension in the IT supply chain. I have always been very passionate about cyber and financial crime and enjoy working in that space as there was so much opportunity to operationalise new and innovative solutions. Another factor for me is that the outcomes are very tangible. But, time for a new challenge and to apply those skills in a new discipline.
What lead you to undertake this work?
When I started my career, I wanted to be an accountant…. boring. I ended up working in government and just took new opportunities as they presented themselves. I became an Certified Fraud Examiner (ACFE) when they were first launched so I have always had an interest in fraud. I am also really fascinated by the human side of fraud and have been fortunate to meet and talk to quite a few fraudsters in my career. I just love to challenge myself, learn new things and ask the question…. but why?
In the midst of a global pandemic and with escalating geopolitics between superpowers is cybercrime receiving the attention it deserves? Or do we overstate cybersecurity risks?
No, it doesn’t. One of the big challenges is the global supply chain of the fraud ecosystem. So many moving parts. Plus, organisations are focused on doing business and tend to overlook the fact that part of that business responsibility is keeping their data and systems safe and secure. Until an event happens and then it’s into crisis mode.
What should countries be doing to quantify and help mitigate organised cybercrime?
At the consumer end, its education and awareness and knowing what to demand of those that hold your information and money. For business, the same and add practical tools for related disciplines like risk management. Provide businesses with the support and tools to educate and empower them.
If you were advising friends and family on staying safe and secure online what would be your top recommendations?
- Verify before you trust.
- Practice mindfulness and reflection of what you see and read.
- Question everything and ask for help if you need it
Kevin’s session runs at 10:00 – 10:50 on 24th February. Register now for your free ticket to take part.