By Mitchell Clarke
Gembrook MP Brad Battin has issued a warning to online shoppers in the lead up to Christmas after his 15-year-old daughter fell victim to a scam.
Mr Battin’s daughter was purchasing gifts with savings from her part time job when a dodgy text proved to be a valuable learning lesson.
After Mikaela purchased her gifts, she received what looked to be a “genuine” text message from the same chain asking her to click on the link to provide more details.
“It looked like a genuine text message from Australia Post so she clicked on the link and it went through to a site which asked for her debit card number,” Mr Battin explained.
“She put in her debit card number which immediately withdrew money from her account.”
It’s understood the same scam also sent Mikaela an email which signed her up to an adult dating service, but she’s not the first to fall victim, with Australia Post aware of a scam circulating.
“We strongly advise people against clicking any links in such texts or making any payments, and that they delete the SMS,” an Australia Post spokesperson said.
“We remind people that Australia Post will never contact anyone via SMS asking for personal information, financial information or to make a payment.
“Australia Post monitors for, and posts updates on new scams on our website and social channels, and regularly train our staff to spot scams and help our customers if they have any concerns.”
Mr Battin said the ordeal proved a “very good” lesson and has urged the community to be aware of similar scams, especially while doing their Christmas shopping.
“It was a very good lesson, she’s told a few of her friends, she was embarrassed at first but we’re making sure with her permission that it doesn’t happen to anyone else,” he said.
“I wouldn’t have entered the details, but she’s 15 and that’s the generation now, everything is online and it’s quite normal to enter details online.
“The message to everyone is no reputable organisation or bank will ever send you a text or email with a link to enter more details.”
