Australia Post scam targeting online Christmas shoppers

Australians are being warned against falling for an opportunistic scam targeting online Christmas shoppers.

Emails claiming to be from Australia Post are being sent to customers claiming a parcel has not been delivered and is being held at a depot, according to MailGuard.

People are encouraged to click on a link in the email which actually downloads a malware file, which can then install spyware or viruses on the victim’s computer.

The scammers are aiming to take advantage of Australia Post’s trusted branding to trick people into falling for the fake.

The scam is a large-scale fraud attempt, aiming to capitalise on the large number of people expecting deliveries at this time of year.

The email claims that a parcel was unable to be delivered, and if it is not collected in seven days then the intended recipient will be charged for storing it.

Customers are asked to click on a link marked ‘Get Dispatch Note’, which actually downloads malware.

The email is riddled with poor spelling and grammatical errors, tell-tale signs for a scam.

‘You can find any information about the procedure and conditions of sending storing, in the nearest post office,’ it reads.

‘Please check information otherwise, you may be fined wrongly.’

Customers are asked to click on a link marked ‘Get Dispatch Note’, which actually downloads malware

It is signed off by the ‘Australia Post Private Agency Online Team’.

MailGuard advises customers to check the sender information on emails carefully to avoid scams.

People are urged to contact companies directly if they’re in doubt about the veracity of an email, rather than click on any links. 

MailGuard advises customers to check the sender information on emails carefully to avoid scams