How to Spot Fake Energy Provider Disconnection SMS Messages Targeting Australian Small Businesses

Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How to Spot Fake Energy Provider Disconnection SMS Messages Targeting Australian Small Businesses. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

Common Causes

Fake SMS messages claiming your electricity or gas will be disconnected are a common scam targeting Australian small businesses. These messages often create a sense of urgency, demanding immediate payment via suspicious links or unconventional methods. Recognising the warning signs can help you protect your business finances and avoid falling victim to fraud.

Identify Common Warning Signs

Fake disconnection SMS messages often share several characteristics. Look for the following red flags:

• Urgency and threats: Messages claiming disconnection within hours or demanding immediate payment.
• Suspicious links: URLs that do not match your energy provider's official domain or use link shorteners.
• Unusual payment requests: Demands for payment via gift cards, cryptocurrency, or direct bank transfers to personal accounts.
• Generic greetings: Messages addressed to "Customer" instead of your business name or account details.
• Spelling and grammar errors: Poorly written text with incorrect Australian English spelling or formatting.

Verify Your Account Status Independently

1. Open your web browser and navigate directly to your energy provider's official website by typing the address manually.
2. Log in using your usual credentials.
3. Check your billing section for any overdue amounts or disconnection notices.
4. If your account is in good standing, the SMS was fraudulent.

Legitimate energy providers in Australia will never demand immediate payment via SMS or threaten instant disconnection without prior written notice sent through the post.

Secure Your Mobile Device

1. Open the messaging app on your smartphone.
2. Long-press the suspicious message thread.
3. Select the delete or trash icon to remove the message.
4. On iOS, go to Settings, then Messages, and enable Filter Unknown Senders.
5. On Android, open the Messages app, tap the three-dot menu, select Settings, then Spam protection, and ensure Enable spam protection is toggled on.

Report the Scam

1. Visit Scamwatch to lodge a formal report.
2. Inform your staff so they are aware of the campaign targeting your organisation.

Never provide your energy account number, banking details, or personal information in response to an unsolicited SMS. If you have already clicked a link or entered details, contact your bank immediately and change your energy provider account password.

If You Are Unsure If the SMS Is Real or Fake

When in doubt, contact your energy provider using the phone number found on a previous paper bill or their official website. Do not use any contact details included in the suspicious SMS.

If You Accidentally Clicked a Link in the Message

1. Close the browser window or tab immediately.
2. Do not enter any personal or payment information on the page.
3. Clear your browser cache and history.
4. Run a security scan on your device using trusted antivirus software.
5. Monitor your bank accounts and energy account for unusual activity.

Still Having Issues?