Beware of Phishing Scams
Services Australia is warning about Phishing scams. These are scammers who try to trick you into giving them your personal information by sending you a link to a fake website.
Scammers do this by sending you emails, texts or social media messages to access your personal information such as your myGov sign in details.
These scams might tell you to claim a refund, sign in to read a new message, update your personal information or upload your identity documents.
Do not click on links or attachments. For example, always do this by entering my.gov.au in a website browser or by using the official myGov app.
What is Phishing?
Scammers send fake emails or texts with a link to a fraudulent website. They want to steal your personal information, like your myGov login.
Common Scams & Red Flags (How to Spot Them)
Urgency & Fear
- The message claims your account will be suspended, deleted, or locked if you don’t act now.
Fake Payments
- It promises a refund, tax payment, or financial settlement you didn’t expect.
Mismatched Details
- The sender’s email address looks slightly wrong (e.g., @my.gov.au vs @mygovau.com).
Bad Spelling/Grammar
- Professional organisations rarely have obvious typos or poor writing.
Generic Greetings
- It uses a general greeting like “Dear Customer” instead of your name.
The Safety Rule
DO NOT click on links or attachments in suspicious messages.
To check your MyGov safely;
- Always go to my.gov.au yourself.
- Type the address into your browser.
- NEVER sign in using a link someone sent you.
