We have recently become aware of a scam aiming to trick people into handing over their credit card information in order to remain listed on the Australian Government’s free Do Not Call Register.
Scammers have been calling Australian consumers and telling them that their listing on the register is due for renewal before requesting payment over the phone via credit card.
Providing your credit card details over the phone to these scammers could also put your finances and personal security at risk!
Remember:
- The Do Not Call Register is a free service provided by the government and you will never be asked to pay for it.
- It is unlikely that someone from a government department will ever contact you out of the blue and request personal information. Always contact the department before responding using contact details from a trusted source such as their official website.
- Don't give out your personal, credit card or online account details over the phone unless you made the call or are able to verify that the call absolutely came from a trusted source.
- Contact your bank or financial institution immediately if you think you have provided your account details to a scammer.
Southern Phone recommends you report this scam to the ACMA by calling 1300 792 958 or by lodging a complaint on the ACMA website (link is external).