ACMA issues alert on rising loyalty points scam SMSs

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has issued an urgent alert regarding a significant rise in loyalty points and rewards-based SMS scams. The latest advisory comes with additional insights from Telstra's Cyber Security Expert, Darren Pauli, as these scams increasingly target unsuspecting customers.

According to ACMA, individuals should be particularly vigilant about SMS messages that claim their Telstra loyalty points are nearing expiration. One notable hallmark of these fraudulent texts is minor misspellings, such as the incorrect spelling of "Telstra", which can serve as an initial red flag.

Darren Pauli explains, "The wording a scammer uses might change from one text to another, which is why we all need to remain vigilant." He also notes that Telstra, much like other prominent brands, is frequently impersonated in such scams.

Pauli revealed a staggering statistic: "In 2023, Telstra helped block an average of 11 million scam SMS messages every month through our Cleaner Pipes program. However, some still slip through, which is why we need your help."

For those who are unsure about the legitimacy of a message, Pauli provided some critical advice: "Ask yourself if an SMS, chat, or phone call seems unexpected. Disengage if you think it is: don't click links or supply any info." He also urged customers not to feel pressured to share personal information and to contact the organisation using the official number listed on their website or in their contacts list, particularly if the person is claiming to be a family member or friend.

Customers are advised to use the My Telstra App to verify Telstra Plus points safely. Additionally, Telstra's Active Scams page provides the latest advice on how to report scams and spot them. This resource details all prevailing scams, including the loyalty point SMS scams, and offers guidance on how to avoid falling victim.

Pauli further explained the reporting procedure for suspected scams. "If you receive a suspected SMS or MMS scam, iPhone users can select 'Report Junk' or 'Report Spam' within the message."

Telstra customers can also report a suspicious SMS or MMS by forwarding it to 7226 (SCAM). Pauli emphasised the importance of immediate action: "Urgency is key. The minute you see a scam, report it. The faster we see it, the quicker we can act."

It's also crucial to report scams directly to the impacted organisation, customer's telecom provider, and Scamwatch. Each report helps identify more scams and prevent others from becoming victims.

Pauli concluded, "Every report helps us identify more scams and helps stop others from falling victim." he reiterated that public vigilance plays an essential role in the ongoing battle against such fraudulent activities.