We have recently seen an influx in the quantity and quality of fraudulent emails currently circulating.
The quality of these emails is vastly improving, with even the most ‘trained’ of eye uncertain of the authenticity. The most recent was an ASIC Business Name renewal email requesting payment for the renewal of a Business Name. The email in question provided the official ASIC Logo, along with a link to arrange payment. These kind of emails could catch even the savviest of people.
Here, we offer three quick tips to identify a potentially fraudulent email:
- Check the Sender’s Email Address
You can’t fake an email address. This is the first step in establishing authenticity. Most government agency emails will end in .gov or .org. A lot of the fraudulent emails will most often end in .biz or other non-descript email addresses.
- Check for Non-Personalisation
Legitimate correspondence will generally state personal information to you. For example, a Business Name Renewal Notice will state the Business Name or other personalised information. Most fraudulent emails will only state general information or require you to click a link for more information
- Trust Your Judgement
Trust your gut. If an email is asking for Credit Card details or to click a suspicious link, always confirm with the sender prior to opening. The team at Morrows are more than willing to help clarify authenticity when it comes to ATO and ASIC emails, often a quick phone call will clear up any doubt.