Don't fall for this dodgy phishing scam targeting Qantas frequent flyers
An unknown number of people received the scam email.
Qantas frequent flyers have been targeted by a scam to steal their money or personal data after a dodgy email was circulated.
There are 17 million Qantas Frequent Flyer members but Explore understands the Qantas database wasn't hacked and some people who received the email might not have been Qantas members.
An unknown number of emails were sent - some landing in the inbox of Qantas frequent flyer members - asking the recipients to click on a suspicious link.
The email "Unauthorized access to your Qantas" does not originate from an official Qantas email address.
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It claims an unauthorised person has accessed the recipient's frequent flyer account and if they want to "cancel the operation" they should click on the link.
Explore has received a copy of the email but has not clicked on the link.
Qantas confirmed it was a scam email. It was aware of the scam and had reported it to the relevant authorities.
Explore understands a small number of Qantas frequent flyers fell for the scam and are working with Qantas to secure their accounts.
The airline has directed customers to its website including information about how to spot a scam and examples of some scam emails customers have received.
The website says: "If you're not 100% sure something is genuine, please don't click on any links."
Qantas declined to provide an official comment.
Scammers posing as well-known brands
A National Anti-Scam Centre spokesperson said it is common for scammers to use well-known Australian brands to try to steal personal information from Australians.
"The purpose of these phishing scams is to steal money or personal information," they said.
"Their messages are designed to appear genuine, and often copy the format used by the business the scammer is impersonating, including using the business' branding and logo.
"Scammers will typically use information obtained through phishing scams to commit fraud, for example credit card fraud and account takeovers."
They advised Australians to report scams to the National Anti-Scam Centre's Scamwatch service and notify their bank if a scammer has their personal information or they have lost money.
Top tips for avoiding scams
The National Anti-Scam Centre provided the following tips to keep yourself safe online and avoid falling for scams.
- STOP. Don't give money or your information to anyone if unsure.
- CHECK. Ask yourself if the message or call is fake.
- PROTECT. Act quickly if something feels wrong. Contact your bank immediately if you notice unusual activity or if a scammer gets your money or information. Seek help and report the scam or any suspicious contact or activity to Scamwatch. Your report will help us protect others.
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