Australians are being warned about false information online about Centrelink payments. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) says scams related to fake Centrelink payments have gone up by 25% in the past year.
Some online posts claim people will soon get large payments, like $2,100, to help with the cost of living.
Sadly, these claims are often scams targeting vulnerable groups like seniors and low-income families. Over 10,000 people have been tricked by these scams, losing more than $4 million in total. Everyone needs to stay alert and informed to avoid being scammed.
The $2,100 Centrelink Payment Scam: A Closer Look
Many fraudulent websites are promoting one-off Centrelink payments, such as $2,100, to help with rising living costs. These scams often mimic trusted organisations like Centrelink, myGov, and the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) by using official-looking designs and language. False claims include:
- Payments of $2,100, $1,490, or other significant amounts
- Refunds of $4,529 in taxes or $915 in parenting benefits
- Targeting vulnerable groups, including pensioners and low-income Australians
Services Australia’s Official Warning
Services Australia has confirmed that there are no new one-off payments like those described in these scams. They have advised:
- Avoid Unofficial Websites: Many fraudulent websites and social media posts are spreading false information.
- Check Official Sources: Verify updates through trusted platforms like myGov or the Services Australia website.
- Ignore Payment Claims: Promises of amounts like $750, $1,490, or $2,100 are fabricated.
Example of a Fake Offer
A scam might claim, “A $2,100 payment is available to all Centrelink recipients to ease living costs. Apply now!” These offers often link to fraudulent websites that mimic government platforms but have suspicious URLs. Always verify such claims through official channels.
How to Protect Yourself
- Verify Website URLs
Ensure any Centrelink-related website ends with “.gov.au.” - Guard Personal Information
Never share personal or financial details in response to unsolicited messages or emails. - Report Scams
Notify relevant authorities if you encounter suspicious websites or messages. - Stay Informed
Rely on official government sources for updates on payments or changes.
How Scammers Mimic Trusted Organisations
Scammers employ various techniques to appear legitimate:
| Tactic | Description |
|---|---|
| Urgency | Creating a false sense of immediacy to push victims to act without verifying details |
| Official-Looking Logos | Using fake logos of trusted organisations to appear credible |
| Impersonating Contacts | Pretending to be friends, family, or trusted officials to gain trust |
These tactics are also used in unrelated scams, such as fake rebate or energy payment offers, further misleading Australians.
