The worrying new Medicare SMS scam targeting innocent Aussies

There’s a new Medicare scam making the rounds and it’s targeting innocent Aussies. Stay Smart Online has issued a warning telling people to be careful of fake SMS messages claiming to be from Medicare.

According to the security website, the SMS encourages victims to click through to a website and provide personal information to claim a rebate. The messages are being sent out in large numbers and are trying to steal victims personal details to use them for malicious purposes.

Anyone who has a mobile phone and an Australian mobile phone number could receive these SMS messages. 

Stay Smart Online is now advising customers to not “click on the link or reply”. 

“SMS continues to be a popular method for criminals hoping to trick you into handing over your money or personal information,” Stay Smart Online warns.

The security website adds there are some simple steps you can take to avoid a scam.

The best way to protect yourself from a scam is to never reply to suspicious emails, open any attachments or click on any links in emails. Aways consider the possibility that an email or text message may be a scam and be cautious when sharing personal information. If you’re unsure, call Medicare to check if they have sent the message.

Read more: Disturbing new ‘extortion’ email scam doing the rounds

It comes less than a week after the Australian Communications and Media Authority warned that scammers were targeting NBN users through a new phone scam.

In a post shared on its Facebook page, the watchdog said a robocall is the latest scam catching innocent people out. Australians across the country are receiving automated calls claiming to be from the NBN, telling them that their internet will be disconnected. In actual fact, it’s an elaborate scam intended to steal personal information and money.

After people are invited to press a number on their phone, victims are their prompted to hand over their personal information and payment in order for their internet not to be disconnected.

“NBN Co will never make these unsolicited calls to request payment or bank account details,” the ACMA said. “If you get a call that you suspect is a scam, hang up.”

Read more: ‘November is prime time for scammers’: ATO warns Aussies to be on alert

If you’re concerned about phishing scams, visit: www.scamwatch.gov.au to learn more about the warning signs and how to protect yourself.

Have you fallen victim to a scam in the past?