This Scam Alert is a joint warning from the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) and the National Anti-Scam Centre’s Scamwatch.

What’s happening

Criminals are committing fraud by taking control of mobile phone numbers or making unauthorised changes to phone accounts. Once they gain access to your phone, they can receive verification codes, reset passwords, restrict access to your systems, and get access to a wide range of services that rely on your mobile number for security checks, including:

• your bank accounts
• myGov
• subscription services
• rewards programs.

Some people are at risk of mobile number fraud when their email account is compromised. Mobile phone fraud can also occur when scammers gain access to your ID documents or passwords through phishing attempts and following data breaches.

Who’s at risk

Anyone with a mobile phone number can be targeted by this scam. However, people who know or suspect they have been in a data breach may be at greater risk of being targeted.

If you’ve been affected

If your phone stops working unexpectedly or you notice suspicious activity, contact your bank immediately then contact your phone provider.

Change passwords on all your devices and online accounts and notify your bank or card provider straight away.

Monitor your bank statements and account activity for anything unusual.

If a scammer has your personal details, contact IDCARE on 1800 595 160 for support.