How to Spot Fake Services Australia and Centrelink Payment SMS Messages Targeting Australian Small Business Owners

Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How to Spot Fake Services Australia and Centrelink Payment SMS Messages Targeting Australian Small Business Owners. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

Common Causes

Fraudulent SMS messages pretending to be from Services Australia or Centrelink are increasingly targeting small business owners across Australia. These messages often claim there is a problem with a payment, an overpayment has been made, or personal details need to be updated to receive a benefit. Clicking the links in these messages can lead to phishing websites designed to steal your myGov credentials, banking details, or business information.

Quick Fix Steps

1. Do not click any links in the SMS message.
2. Do not reply to the message or call any phone number provided in the text.
3. Delete the message from your device.
4. Log in to your official myGov account directly via a web browser to check for legitimate notifications.
5. Report the message to the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) via ReportCyber.

Detailed Instructions

How to Identify a Fake SMS

• Unexpected contact: Services Australia and Centrelink generally do not send unsolicited SMS messages containing links to log in or update personal details.
• Urgent language: Messages that create a sense of panic, such as claiming your payment will be stopped immediately or you must act within 24 hours.
• Suspicious links: Links that do not end in gov.au or use URL shorteners like bit.ly or tinyurl.com.
• Generic greetings: Messages addressed to "Customer" or "Citizen" instead of your full name.
• Requests for sensitive information: Asking for your myGov password, Tax File Number, or credit card details via SMS.

How to Verify a Legitimate Message

1. Open your preferred web browser (such as Chrome, Safari, or Edge).
2. Navigate directly to the official website by typing www.servicesaustralia.gov.au or www.my.gov.au into the address bar.
3. Click the Sign in button.
4. Enter your myGov username and password.
5. Check your Inbox or Messages section for any official correspondence regarding payments or overpayments.

If you cannot find the message in your official myGov inbox, the SMS you received is almost certainly a scam.

What to Do If You Clicked a Link

1. Immediately close the browser tab or application.
2. Do not enter any usernames, passwords, or financial information on the page.
3. If you entered your myGov credentials, go to my.gov.au and change your password immediately.
4. Enable multi-factor authentication on your myGov account if you have not already done so.
5. Contact your financial institution if you provided any banking or credit card details.

Never provide your myGov password or security codes to anyone, including someone claiming to be from Services Australia or Centrelink over the phone.

How to Report the Scam

1. Take a screenshot of the SMS message, including the sender's phone number.
2. Visit the ReportCyber website at www.cyber.gov.au.
3. Select Report a cybercrime and follow the prompts to submit your report.
4. You can also forward suspicious SMS messages to the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) by sending them to 0429 999 888.

If you believe your business information has been compromised or you need assistance securing your accounts, Open a Ticket with our support team.

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