If you own a mobile phone chances are that you have received an unusual message lately. Sadly, while we have been in lockdown the scammers have been very busy.
Thousands of Australians have been sent a link via a phone text message. If you click on the link, malware is installed onto your device. Phone users are often tricked to click on the link by thinking they have a missed voicemail; a package being delivered; or they have been sent a link to their vaccination certificate or myGov account.
Once the malware is installed, it can then go to steal your passwords and data and even take your money.
If you receive any text message like this:
- Do not click the link
- Delete the text message
- Do not call back the individual who sent the text
- If you have lost personal information to a scammer and are concerned you can visit idcare.org or call 1800 595 160
- Make a report to https://www.cyber.gov.au if you have been a victim of this cybercrime
- If you think you have accidently installed the malware, contact your bank and ensure your accounts are secure and then get help from someone who knows about IT. You may have to do a factory reset on your phone and change your security passwords.
