4 Optus scams to watch out for
Aussies are being urged to look out for scams following the recent Optus data breach, with Scamwatch revealing four new hoaxes being sent to customers.
The ACCC’s Scamwatch is warning Aussies to be on high alert for scams.
“Scammers will use the data breach and target people in any way that they can,” Scamwatch said.
“This means you will likely notice an increased number of phishing emails, phone calls, and SMS or social media messages.”
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Scamwatch shared four scams currently targeting Optus customers.
New sim cards
In one text message, a customer is told that Optus is issuing new sim cards.
“Optus is not contacting people about issuing new sim cards. Delete these messages,” Scamwatch warned.
Demands for money
Another message warns customers that their personal information will be released if they don’t pay the scammer money.
“If you receive demands to pay money with a threat that your information will be released, delete the message,” Scamwatch advised.
“Scammers are pretending to be hackers to make you give them money.”
Issues with your bills
Scammers are also pretending to be Optus and are contacting customers about issues with their bills and asking them to update their financial information. This is a scam, Scamwatch said.
Reimbursements
Customers should also watch out for messages offering to reimburse them or compensate them.
“There is no financial restitution being sent to individuals caught in the data breach at this time,” Scamwatch said.
Optus has said it is not sending links to customers in SMS or email messages.
“If customers receive an email or SMS with a link claiming to be from Optus, they are advised that this is not a communication from Optus. Please do not click on any links,” the Telco said in a statement.
Scamwatch has asked customers to:
Be wary of new communications and don’t just accept what you’re being told.
Do not click any links or open any attachments.
Never provide anyone with your personal or banking information or grant remote access to your device.
Check the login activity for your accounts and sign out of unrecognised devices (Microsoft, Gmail, Yahoo, AppleID, Facebook)
Check your social media accounts, update passwords and do privacy and security checks.
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