In a world where scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated and frequent, protecting your money...
In an era where scams are constantly evolving, Australians have been cautioned against a new phishing scheme spreading across the internet. This time, scammers are targeting MyGov accounts with the promise of a fake "$890 Centrelink bonus payment" supposedly to assist with the cost of living. Services Australia has confirmed that these claims are fraudulent, and the only intent behind these scams is to steal personal credentials.
How the Scam Works
Recently, fraudulent websites and social media posts have started circulating, advertising a so-called “one-off payment” or “Centrelink cash relief” with amounts varying from $750 to $1,800. The scammers claim that these bonuses are aimed at helping with living costs or providing assistance for concession card holders.
These websites often urge users to "check their eligibility" by entering personal information, including MyGov credentials, into a fake calculator. By doing so, scammers gain access to sensitive details, which can then be used to take control of a person’s MyGov account, lock them out, or even make fraudulent claims on their behalf.
Recognize and Avoid Clickbait Scams
One red flag to look out for is the website URL itself. If it doesn’t end with “.gov.au,” it is not an official government website and could potentially be a scam. Services Australia has reiterated that official updates regarding payments are only communicated through official government websites and social media channels.
Unfortunately, scam websites are popping up faster than authorities can take them down, making vigilance even more essential.
What You Can Do to Protect Yourself
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Verify the URL: Always ensure the website ends with “.gov.au.” This indicates an official government site. If you’re uncertain, go directly to the official Services Australia website rather than clicking through a link.
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Enable Security Measures: Set up a verbal password on your MyGov account. This extra layer of security can prevent unauthorized access.
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Stay Informed Through Official Channels: Services Australia exclusively communicates payment changes through its website and verified social media accounts. If you see any mention of a bonus payment from an unknown source, treat it with caution.
The Growing Impact of Scams in Australia
According to Scamwatch, Australians have already lost over $134 million to scams in 2024 alone, with phishing scams ranking as the third-highest source of losses. The Federal Ombudsman reported that hackers are exploiting MyGov accounts by linking them to bogus accounts, which they then use to make fraudulent tax claims or claim support payments falsely.
Stay Ahead of Scams
Our mission is not only to help you build wealth but also to protect it. As scams become more sophisticated, knowledge is power. Take these extra steps to stay safe online, safeguard your financial future, and help us create a more informed community.
