In July, cyber criminals stepped up their game, sending SMS messages about banking rewards, unpaid tolls, and health insurance updates. Here’s what to watch out for and how to protect yourself. 

Rewards That Cost You 

Scammers have been impersonating banks like CommBank, sending texts about exclusive rewards offers or bonus points ready to claim. The link directs you to a fake site designed to look like internet banking, prompting you to log in and capture your credentials. Always access rewards and offers by logging into your account directly through the official banking app or website. 

The Fine That Isn’t Real 

July saw a spike in scam texts posing as toll payment reminders. These messages claim you owe toll fees and creates a sense of urgency  to click a “pay now” link, which leads to a fake site. Always avoid clicking links in unexpected messages and instead check your account through your toll provider’s official website. 

Health Cover Texts You Can’t Trust 

Scammers have recently begun impersonating Compare Club, promoting fake offers to compare health insurance plans and offering incentives such as gift cards in exchange. These messages often included links to fake websites, designed to collect personal details under the guise of a limited-time offer. While the offer may seem helpful or even urgent, it’s a trap — the goal is to steal your personal or financial information. Always visit the official company website directly and avoid clicking on links in unexpected messages.

Quick tips to help keep you safe. 

• If you are unsure whether a text message is real or not, the best thing to do is contact the relevant organization directly. 

• Keep your personal and account details private — genuine companies won’t ask for them in a text message. 

• Stay cautious and question every SMS you get—better safe than scammed. 

• Use a security solution like Trend Mico ScamCheck that filters and blocks spam and scam messages. 

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