Aussies have lost over $134 million to scams this year. The latest scam targets a fake “Centrelink $890 bonus payment”. Scammers are setting up fake websites and social media accounts. They promise a one-off cost-of-living relief payment from the government.
This scam is part of a growing trend. Fraudsters are impersonating government agencies and services. They aim to steal personal information and money. Services Australia has warned about these tactics, urging people to be cautious.
Major Highlights
- Aussies have lost over $134 million to scams in 2023 alone.
- Fake Centrelink $890 bonus payment websites are part of a growing trend of government impersonation scams.
- Scammers aim to steal personal information, such as myGov login details, through these deceptive offers.
- Services Australia has warned the public about these scams and advised against providing any personal information on suspicious websites.
- Australians should be vigilant and verify the legitimacy of any claimed Centrelink or government payments before responding.
Centrelink Payment Scam Alert
Australians are on high alert for government support during the COVID-19 pandemic. Scammers are taking advantage of this uncertainty. They’re targeting people with fake promises of a $890 Centrelink bonus payment.
Current Scam Tactics and Methods
Scammers use clever tactics to trick people. They create fake websites and social media accounts. They claim these are for cost of living or covid-19 relief payments.
The scams ask people to “check their eligibility status.” This requires personal details. Scammers use this to get into victims’ myGov accounts and lock them out.
How Scammers Target Vulnerable Australians
Scammers mainly target pensioners, low-income earners, people with disabilities, and jobseekers. These groups rely heavily on government stimulus and support. Scammers use the desire for financial help to exploit these Australians.
“Australians have lost more than $134 million to scams this year, with phishing scams ranking as the third-highest loss category following investment scams and romance scams.”
It’s vital for all Australians to be cautious. Always check if Centrelink or government payments are real before giving out personal details. Stay updated through official sources to avoid scams.
Warning Signs of Fake Government Payment Websites
The Australian government is working hard to recover from tough times. But scammers are trying to take advantage of this uncertainty. They create fake websites that promise a $890 economic recovery measure or welfare benefits.
These scam sites try to trick people by not ending in ‘.gov.au’. Real government sites are servicesaustralia.gov.au and my.gov.au. Scammers also use fake promises and ask for your personal details.
- Fake websites might say they can check if you’re eligible for the $890 payment. This is just a way to get your personal info.
- Scammers post on social media about “Centrelink cash relief payments” of $750 to $1,800. But these are all lies.
- The real government only talks about payments and benefits on their “.gov.au” sites and trusted social media.
By being careful and checking if government payment offers are real, Aussies can avoid scams. This helps keep their personal and financial info safe.
“Scammers are using the economic uncertainty to make fake websites and posts about non-existent government payments. It’s very important for Aussies to be cautious of any offers that seem too good to be true.”
The Truth About the Centrelink $890 Bonus Payment
Australians have been told about a $890 bonus payment from Centrelink. But, the truth is, this payment doesn’t exist. Services Australia, the government agency for social security and welfare, has said there’s no $890 Centrelink bonus.
Why This Payment Doesn’t Exist
The $890 bonus payment is part of a scam targeting vulnerable Australians. This includes seniors and those on low to moderate incomes. Scammers use fake websites and phishing emails to trick people into thinking they’re eligible for this non-existent payment.
In reality, it’s a way to steal personal and financial information.
Official Government Statements
Services Australia has been clear: any changes to social security payments or government benefits are announced officially. This includes the Services Australia website and social media. The agency warns that fake payments, like $750 and $1,800, are being advertised and are not real.
Scamwatch data shows Australians have lost over $134 million to scams this year. Phishing scams are the third-highest cause of financial loss. It’s important for Australians to be careful and check if any government communications or payment offers are real before giving out personal or financial information.
The government’s message is clear: the Centrelink $890 bonus payment does not exist, and any claims to the contrary are scams. Australians should only trust official government sources for information about social security payments and other welfare support services.
How Scammers Access Personal Information Through Fake Payments
Scammers are taking advantage of the cost-of-living crisis to target Aussies. They offer fake payment deals to get sensitive info. This info can be used to access myGov accounts and steal identities or commit fraud.
Scammers use a method called “unauthorised linking” to create fake myGov accounts. They link these to real accounts without the owner’s consent. This lets them see Centrelink, Australian Taxation Office, and Medicare records, risking the victim’s financial safety.
| Scam Tactics | Reported Losses |
|---|---|
| Phishing scams | $134 million |
| Investment scams | Highest losses |
| Romance scams | Second-highest losses |
Scammers set up fake websites and social media posts to offer fake payments. They claim these are cost-of-living supplements of $750 or $1,800. They ask for personal info, like myGov login details, saying it’s for an “eligibility check”.
“If a website URL doesn’t end in ‘.gov.au,’ it isn’t an official government website and could be a scam.”
Australians need to watch out for these scams. By checking if government payments or messages are real, they can keep their info and money safe.
Identifying Legitimate Government Websites and Communications
In Australia, scams and fake financial help are common. It’s important to know the real government sites from the fake ones. Knowing the real sites helps you get the right info.
Authentic Government Website Features
Real government sites in Australia have the ‘.gov.au’ at the end. For example, Services Australia is at servicesaustralia.gov.au. MyGov is at my.gov.au. These sites are where you find info on centrelink $890 bonus payment and australian financial assistance.
Official Communication Channels
- The government shares updates and payment info on their official sites and social media.
- They never ask for personal info or links via email, text, or phone.
- If you’re unsure about centrelink $890 bonus payment or australian financial assistance, check the real Services Australia website or their social media.
By checking real government sites, Australians can avoid scams. This helps protect those who might be targeted.
“Scamwatch reports Australians lost over $134 million to scams this year, with investment, romance, and phishing scams being the most prevalent.”
| Authentic Government Website Features | Official Communication Channels |
|---|---|
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Protecting Your myGov Account from Unauthorised Access
Australia is facing tough times due to the covid-19 pandemic. Scammers are taking advantage of people who need low-income support and covid-19 relief payment. They are focusing on myGov accounts, which hold important personal and financial details.
To keep your myGov account safe, follow some key steps. Never give out your login details to anyone. Scammers use tricks to get this info. Also, be careful of emails or links that seem too good to be true, as they might be scams.
- Regularly update your myGov account password to ensure it is strong and unique.
- Enable two-factor authentication to add an extra layer of security to your account.
- Keep your personal and bank details up-to-date within the myGov system to ensure accuracy and prevent fraud.
If you see something odd on your myGov account, act fast. Contact Services Australia and change your password right away. These steps will help keep your info safe and stop scammers from using your account.
“Scammers are increasingly targeting Australians who rely on government support, and myGov accounts are a prime target. Protecting your account should be a top priority.”
Being aware and careful is the best way to avoid scams. Keep up with the latest scam tricks. Always check if government messages or websites are real before sharing any personal or financial details.
Common Variations of Centrelink Payment Scams
Scammers are taking advantage of the public’s financial needs during tough times. They target many groups, like pensioners and jobseekers, with fake Centrelink payment scams. These scams aim to exploit people’s hopes for government help.
Different Payment Amounts Being Advertised
Scammers are using fake payment amounts to trick people. They claim payments of $750, $890, and $1,800. But, remember, the $890 Centrelink bonus payment does not actually exist.
Various Targeting Methods
- Some scams pretend to be from Services Australia, calling to demand urgent payments or face arrest.
- They ask for payments via bank transfer, gift cards, or even cryptocurrency, making it hard to get your money back.
- Phishing emails and fake government websites are used to steal personal info and access financial accounts.
Australians need to stay alert and only trust official government sources. Check the Services Australia website or the myGov portal to avoid scams.
| Scam Payment Amount | Target Groups | Expected Payout Date |
|---|---|---|
| $750 | Pensioners, low-income households | Unconfirmed |
| $890 | Seniors (60+), people with disabilities | Unconfirmed (October 2024) |
| $1,800 | Jobseekers, low-income earners | Unconfirmed |
Always check official government sources like the Services Australia website or the myGov portal. This way, you can avoid falling for these scams.
“Scam-related complaints to the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) rose by 81% in 2023-24, with approximately 11,000 Australians reporting being scammed.”
Services Australia’s Official Response to Payment Scams
Scammers are taking advantage of people looking for financial help during tough times. Services Australia, the government agency for welfare and social security, has warned about fake payment schemes.
Services Australia says the “$890 Centrelink Bonus Payment” is a scam. It’s been shared on social media and fake websites. The goal is to steal personal info and money from people.
“We want to be crystal clear – Services Australia does not offer any $890 bonus payments. If you see an offer for such a payment, it is a scam. We urge all Australians to be vigilant and to only trust information from our official channels.”
The agency says any real changes to benefits are announced on their website, myGov portal, and verified social media. They warn people to be careful of unsolicited offers or suspicious websites claiming to offer government help.
Services Australia’s message is clear: always check official sources for information on welfare and social security. Being informed and proactive helps protect against scams targeting those in need.
Impact of Scams on Australian Citizens
Aussies are facing a tough time with the rising cost of living. Scams related to government assistance payments are a big worry. Scamwatch data shows Australians have lost over $134 million to scams this year.
Investment scams are the most common, followed by romance and phishing scams. These scams target those looking for a household income boost or cost-of-living supplement.
Financial Losses and Statistics
Over 72,500 scams were reported by Australians aged 65 and older in 2023. These scams resulted in losses of more than $120 million. Scammers are using fake schemes to offer “crisis payments” of up to $750 or $1,800.
Nearly 10,000 people each month search for “Centrelink One Off Payment 2024”. This shows how many are interested and potentially vulnerable.
| Scam Category | Total Losses |
|---|---|
| Investment Scams | $46 million |
| Romance Scams | $37 million |
| Phishing Scams | $25 million |
These scams not only cause financial loss but also lead to identity theft and personal info compromise. It’s vital to stay alert and use official channels when dealing with government assistance to avoid these scams.
Steps to Take if You’ve Been Scammed
If you think you’ve been scammed, act fast to lessen the harm. This year, Aussies have lost over $134 million to scams, with investment scams leading the way. Romance and phishing scams are also common.
Start by contacting Services Australia and your bank right away. Scammers can get into your Centrelink, Tax Office, and Medicare by making fake myGov accounts. So, change your passwords for myGov and other online accounts quickly.
- Report the scam to Scamwatch and the Australian Cyber Security Centre.
- Keep an eye on your bank statements and credit reports for anything odd.
- If you’ve shared personal info, think about freezing your credit file to stop identity theft.
Online scams have risen by 13% in Australia recently. Over $100 million was lost to fraud in 2024. So, stay alert and act fast if you think you’ve been targeted.
“Scammers are getting smarter, and they often go after people who need government help like the JobSeeker Payment, Youth Allowance, Age Pension, or Disability Support Pension,” a Services Australia spokesperson says.
By taking these steps, you can safeguard your info and reduce the damage from any centrelink $890 bonus payment scam.
Genuine Centrelink Payment Options Available
Even though the $890 “bonus payment” from Centrelink is a scam, there are real ways to get help. The Australian government, through Centrelink and Services Australia, offers valid support payments. These help people and families when times are tough, like during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Current Valid Support Payments
- Unemployment benefits, such as JobSeeker Payment or Youth Allowance, for those who have lost their jobs or had their hours reduced
- Disability support payments for Australians living with a disability or medical condition
- Age Pension for eligible retirees
- Family assistance, including the Family Tax Benefit and Parenting Payment, for families with children
- Carer’s Allowance and Carer’s Payment for those providing care to a loved one
To see if you qualify and apply for these australian financial assistance options, visit the official Services Australia website. Or, contact them directly through their official channels. Remember, over $241 million in unclaimed Medicare benefits is waiting for eligible Aussies.
“Scammers were promising money like $750 and $1,800 in the false Centrelink payment scam.”
While the $890 bonus payment Centrelink scam got a lot of attention, it’s key to trust official government sources for real help. This way, Aussies can get the covid-19 relief payment and other help they deserve. And they won’t fall for fake scams.
How to Verify Authentic Government Communications
It’s important to be careful with low-income support and government stimulus payments. Make sure you’re dealing with real government channels. Always check the website address. It should end in ‘.gov.au’ to show it’s official.
Services Australia handles Centrelink payments. They won’t send links by email or text. If you’re not sure, call them directly or visit their website. Be cautious of calls from fake government agencies asking for money or threatening arrest.
Government agencies won’t ask for payments with gift cards or cryptocurrency. These are scam signs. Keep your info safe and always check messages before acting. This way, you can avoid scams targeting low-income people and those getting government help.
FAQs
What is the Centrelink $890 bonus payment?
The $890 bonus payment is a scam. It’s not from Centrelink or the Australian government. It’s aimed at people who use government services and benefits.
Yes, Centrelink offers real support payments for unemployment, disability, age pension, and family assistance. Check the official Services Australia website or contact them to see if you’re eligible.
Contact Services Australia and your bank right away. Change your online account passwords. Report the scam to Scamwatch and the Australian Cyber Security Centre. Keep an eye on your bank statements and credit reports for any odd activity.
Check official government sites like servicesaustralia.gov.au and my.gov.au. The government won’t ask you to click on links via email or text. If unsure, contact Services Australia directly.
Scammers use “eligibility checks” to get sensitive data like myGov login details. They then use this info to access victims’ accounts, risking identity theft or fraud.
No, the $890 Centrelink bonus is not real. Services Australia says it’s a scam to get personal and financial info.
Real government sites end in ‘.gov.au’. Fake sites use clickbait, offer too-good-to-be-true payments, and ask for personal info.
People like pensioners, those on low income, people with disabilities, and job seekers are targeted. They are seen as vulnerable.
Yes, Centrelink offers real support payments for unemployment, disability, age pension, and family assistance. Check the official Services Australia website or contact them to see if you’re eligible.
They ask people to “check their eligibility status” to get personal info.
Contact Services Australia and your bank right away. Change your online account passwords. Report the scam to Scamwatch and the Australian Cyber Security Centre. Keep an eye on your bank statements and credit reports for any odd activity.
Check official government sites like servicesaustralia.gov.au and my.gov.au. The government won’t ask you to click on links via email or text. If unsure, contact Services Australia directly.
Scammers use “eligibility checks” to get sensitive data like myGov login details. They then use this info to access victims’ accounts, risking identity theft or fraud.
Scammers use fake websites and social media to promote the scam. They claim there’s a $890 Centrelink payment, or other amounts like $750 and $1,800. They ask people to “check their eligibility status” to get personal info.
No, the $890 Centrelink bonus is not real. Services Australia says it’s a scam to get personal and financial info.
Real government sites end in ‘.gov.au’. Fake sites use clickbait, offer too-good-to-be-true payments, and ask for personal info.
People like pensioners, those on low income, people with disabilities, and job seekers are targeted. They are seen as vulnerable.
