Scammers are becoming more sophisticated and convincing, using phone calls, emails, text messages and social media to trick people into sharing personal information or sending money. They often use logos and fake email addresses that appear to be legitimate.   

Taking a few simple precautions can help protect you, your finances and your identity.  

A reminder about Council communications  

Glen Eira City Council will never: 

• Request payment via PayID 
• Ask you to transfer money to a personal bank account 
• Ask for your online banking password or security codes 
• Communicate with you from a non-Council email address like Gmail or Hotmail 
• Send payment requests through WhatsApp  

If you receive a message claiming to be from Council that asks you to do any of these things, do not respond. Contact Council directly on 9524 3333 to verify the communication.  

We do send text messages (SMS) for things like rates notice reminders, but we never request payment directly in a text message. Messages to phones will come from GLENEIRA CC.

Common signs of a scam  

Be cautious if someone: 

• Creates a sense of urgency and pressures you to act immediately 
• Asks for personal, banking or password information 
• Requests payment through unusual methods such as gift cards, cryptocurrency or PayID 
• Claims you've won a prize, owe money or need to verify an account unexpectedly 
• Sends links that take you to unfamiliar websites 
• Pretends to be from a trusted organisation, government agency or business  

If something doesn't seem right, take a moment to stop and check before responding.  

How to report a scam  

If you believe you've encountered a scam, reporting it can help protect others.  

You can report scams through the Australian Government's Scamwatch service at www.scamwatch.gov.au/report-a-scam   

If you have shared banking information or transferred money, contact your bank immediately. Scamwatch also provides information about steps you can take to protect your identity and recover from a scam.

Protect yourself  

To reduce the risk of being scammed: 

• Never provide your banking details, passwords or one-time security codes in response to an email, text message or phone call. 
• Do not click on links in unexpected emails or messages. 
• Contact organisations directly using phone numbers or websites you have independently verified. 
• Be cautious of unsolicited requests for money or personal information. 
• Discuss suspicious messages with a family member, friend or trusted adviser before taking action.