Australians are being urged to exercise caution as fraudulent websites circulate, falsely advertising a non-existent $890 “bonus” payment for Centrelink recipients.
his scam aims to steal personal information by misleading individuals into believing they are eligible for a cost-of-living relief payment.
What is the Scam About?
In recent weeks, several websites have emerged claiming that Australians will receive a $890 payment to help with living costs by the end of October.
These false claims are designed to deceive people into providing their myGov login details.
How the Scam Works
- False Claims: The fraudulent sites claim that payments are available for various groups, including pensioners, low-income earners, people with disabilities, and job seekers.
- Eligibility Check: These sites often include tools that ask users to “check their eligibility,” requiring them to enter personal details.
- Data Theft: Once the information is provided, scammers can access and lock individuals out of their myGov accounts.
Official Warnings
Services Australia has issued warnings against these scams, emphasizing that any legitimate information about payments will only be communicated through official channels.
Websites ending in ‘.gov.au’ are the only trustworthy sources for government-related information.
Identifying a Scam
- Website URLs: Ensure the URL ends with ‘.gov.au’ to confirm its authenticity.
- Official Communication: Services Australia will announce any changes or updates through their official website and social media channels.
- Verify Information: If unsure about any Centrelink-related information online, verify it via the official Services Australia website or contact them directly.
Other Scams to Watch Out For
Other scams are impersonating Services Australia, Centrelink, and Medicare. These include fraudulent calls demanding immediate debt payments under threat of arrest if not paid via bank transfer, gift cards, or cryptocurrency. Australians are advised to hang up on such calls immediately.
FAQs
How can I tell if a Centrelink payment offer is a scam?
Check if the website URL ends in ‘.gov.au’. If not, it’s likely a scam.
What should I do if I encounter a scam website?
Avoid entering any personal information and report it to Services Australia.
How can I protect my myGov account from scammers?
Regularly change your password and enable two-factor authentication.
Where can I find official updates on Centrelink payments?
Visit the Services Australia website or follow their official social media accounts for updates.