Centrelink’s Urgent Update for Australians After Recent Targeting – What You Need to Do

Scammers are at it again, and this time, they’re targeting Aussies with fake emails pretending to be from Centrelink or Services Australia. These phishing scams aim to steal your personal and financial information by creating a sense of urgency. Let’s break down what’s happening, how to spot these scams, and what to do if you’ve been targeted.

Scam

Scammers are sending fake emails claiming that you need to “urgently update” your details otherwise your payments will be disrupted. The emails have embedded links to look-alike myGov websites which ask for sensitive information such as: >

• MyGov account identifier and password
• Personal details (name, address, date of birth)
• Customer Reference Number from Centrelink or Medicare card details
• Banking details (credit card details, BSB, account number)
• Using these details, rob you of money or even rob your identity.

Scam E-mails

In most cases, these are rogue e-mails usually with frightening mail subjects, as follows: >

• Use keywords such as:
• • “We need to see this urgent attention now.” 
• • “If you miss providing information…”

The emails carry links that look like they link to myGov, but do not be taken in by that — the URLs won’t be similar to the actual site (my.gov.au). They send you to phishing sites that get your details instead. >

How to Identify

• Check the URL: If you’re unsure about a link, long-press on it on your phone to view the full URL without opening it. If it’s not my.gov.au, it’s a scam.
• No Links from Services Australia: Never will Services Australia send you links to log in to your myGov or Centrelink account.
• Don’t Panic: Scammers want you to act without thinking. If an email feels rushed or threatening, it’s likely fake.
• Verify Directly: Don’t click on email links. Instead, type “my.gov.au” directly into your browser or use the official myGov app.

If You Clicked the Link

If you’ve clicked on a suspicious link, take immediate action:

1. Contact the Scams and Identity Theft Helpdesk:
2. Call 1800 941 126 (Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm AEST/AEDT).
3. Report the Scam:
4. Forward suspicious emails to reportascam@servicesaustralia.gov.au.
5. Secure Your Accounts:
6. Change your myGov password immediately.
7. Monitor your bank accounts for unusual transactions.
8. Consider contacting your bank to flag your account.
9. Stay Vigilant: If you suspect your identity has been stolen, report it through IDCARE, a free support service for identity theft victims.

Mitigating Scam Risks

Scams aren’t going away anytime soon. In 2024 alone, Aussies lost nearly $319 million to various scams, including phishing. To protect yourself: >

• Always verify links before clicking.
• Use strong, unique passwords for each account.
• Enable two-factor authentication where possible.

Being proactive is what can keep you from falling into the vast list of individuals who fall for scams.

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