General News
18 July, 2022
Beware text scam sending false COVID-19 information
Local police are warning community members not to click on a text message link offering a free COVID test and claiming the text recipient has been in contact with a positive case. The scam text messages impersonate the Australian Government...
Local police are warning community members not to click on a text message link offering a free COVID test and claiming the text recipient has been in contact with a positive case.
The scam text messages impersonate the Australian Government, Medicare and myGov and warn the recipient has been in contact with a person who is positive for COVID-19, urging them to click on a link to order a free test kit.
If you click on the link, it will take you to a fake Australian Government website which will ask you to book now for a free COVID-19 testing kit.
You may then see a fake myGov or Medicare website that asks you to provide your personal information such as your banking details, which are then used to steal information and money.
Services Australia are reminding people that they do not include links in their text messages and only send texts reminding people to attend their appointments, letting them know they’ve been paid, confirming changes to details and informing users there’s a new message in their myGov inbox.
If you have received this scam text message and opened a link, given someone you don’t know your myGov or other personal details, or replied to a suspicious text contact the Scams and Identity Theft Help Desk on 1800 941 126.
For advice on this scam visit www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/how-to-protect-against-scams