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Danny O’Brien warns Gippslanders to stay alert as fake government email and text scams increase

Danny O’Brien urges residents to stay vigilant against sophisticated government-themed email and text scams, verify messages using Scam Safe Check, and report suspicious activity to protect the community.

By news@gippsland - 5th January 2026 - Back to News

The Nationals Member for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien is urging Gippslanders to remain vigilant amid increasing reports of emails and text messages falsely claiming to be from government agencies. Mr O’Brien said many Gippslanders had raised concerns about suspicious messages appearing to come from organisations such as Service Victoria, myGov, Australia Post, the ATO and various other government departments and organisations.

If in immediate danger, call 000. For cybercrime, report to police and contact your bank to halt transactions immediately, awareness is the key

Scam warnings intensify

Mr O’Brien said, "These types of scams are becoming more sophisticated, with messages often looking genuine and using official logos or language to trick people into clicking links or sharing personal information."

"It is incredibly important that we take a moment to pause and verify any unexpected email or text message before responding. Government agencies will never threaten you, demand immediate payment or ask for sensitive personal details via text or email," Mr O’Brien said.

New scam tool

Mr O’Brien said that Service Victoria has launched a simple online tool to help check whether a message is legitimate. "The Scam Safe Check tool is a handy resource that asks you to answer a few brief questions to help determine if it’s a scam. This is a practical way for people to protect themselves and avoid falling victim to fraudsters who are using fear and confusion to target households."

The Scam Safe Check tool is available at the Service Victoria website. Mr O’Brien encouraged anyone who receives a suspicious message to report it. "If you think you’ve been targeted by a scam, report it to Scamwatch website. "Reporting helps authorities track emerging scam trends and warn others," he said.

Mr O’Brien also urged residents to share warnings with family and friends. "Awareness is key. Talking to older relatives, young people and neighbours about scam tactics can help keep the whole community safe."

Pictures from South Gippsland Shire Council Facebook page.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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