Workshop on scams and identity theft to help businesses combat threats

October 27, 2025 BY
Business scam workshop

The Northern Rivers Community Gallery is hosting the Ballina Shire Council Innovate and Connect event. Photo: SUPPLIED

RESIDENTS and business owners can learn about scams and identity theft as well as the latest on artificial intelligence at a free networking event.

The Ballina Shire Council is running the Innovate and Connect event at the Northern Rivers Community Gallery on Wednesday, October 29.

The workshop will be delivered by councils’ destination and economy team as part of Small Business Month and Tech Week.

There will be practical support from industry experts with a focus on small business.

On the night, industry leaders from ID Support NSW will highlight ways to protect a business and customers from scams and identity theft.

The presentation will provide practical advice for owners’ on safeguarding customer data and strengthening digital systems.

They can also explain how malware works, the ways it can compromise devices and how to keep systems secure.

“Councils play a critical role in local trust and by helping small businesses and members of their communities understand cyber threats,” ID Support NSW said in a statement.

“Local government can help stop harm before it starts.”

Attendees can also take part in a short AI simulation exercise to see how new technology can help streamline a business.

The Northern Rivers Community Gallery will be open for viewers to wander its latest exhibitions, which showcase vibrant and experimental local art.

Ballina has hosted a range of workshops and provided online support for webinars during Small Business Month.

This year there was a focus on AI and how businesses can use it to advantage. There was also a series of web classes on drones and other emerging technology.

Registration is free. Head to events.humanitix.com.