Beware of the Fake $890 Centrelink Bonus Payment Scam Targeting Australians
Recently, there’s been an alarming spread of online scams targeting Australians, particularly through a fake Centrelink "bonus payment" offer of $890. Many websites and social media accounts have falsely advertised this payment as a cost-of-living relief initiative, supposedly rolling out by the end of October. In reality, this payment does not exist, and these fraudulent schemes are designed to steal personal information, including myGov credentials, which could lead to identity theft and significant financial loss.
These scammers often present the payment as a “one-off” bonus or relief payment to help Australians manage the rising cost of living. Some even target specific groups like pensioners, low-income earners, people with disabilities, and job seekers, creating an illusion of tailored support. The fraudsters have gone as far as creating fake “eligibility calculators” that ask users to enter their personal details. These details can then be used by scammers to gain unauthorized access to victims' accounts, potentially locking them out and even initiating fraudulent claims under their names.
Also Read:- Indiana’s Future Looks Bright Under Curt Cignetti’s Vision
- Thrilling Tyrone SFC Final: Trillick Faces Errigal Ciaran Tonight!
Services Australia has warned the public to be cautious and avoid engaging with these unofficial websites. They’ve emphasized that legitimate government websites will always have a ‘.gov.au’ extension, which is an important clue for users to determine if the site is genuine. Any updates regarding Centrelink payments or services will only appear on official government websites or verified social media channels associated with Services Australia.
This scam is part of a larger wave of online fraud impacting Australians. In fact, reports show that over $134 million has already been lost to various scams this year, with phishing and impersonation scams being among the most common. Australians are advised to be vigilant and to verify any payment offers through official channels, rather than relying on information shared across unverified websites or social media. Services Australia recommends setting up a verbal password for additional account security and encourages reporting any suspicious activity to Scamwatch.
If you’re unsure about the authenticity of any Centrelink-related information, it’s best to verify it through the official Services Australia website or by contacting them directly. This vigilance can help protect against scams, preserve personal information, and prevent further financial harm.
Read More:
0 Comments