URGENT UPDATE: Scammers are impersonating officials from the Department of Home Affairs in an alarming visa fraud scheme targeting individuals applying to travel to Australia. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke has issued a critical warning about this “active scam,” emphasizing that applicants must remain vigilant against these deceitful tactics.
New reports confirm that fraudsters are contacting potential visa applicants, offering assistance in exchange for payments to expedite applications. “Home Affairs officials will never ask people for extra money to process visas faster,” Burke stated in a press release on Thursday. He advised anyone receiving unexpected calls to hang up immediately and verify by calling back using a publicly available number.
The department’s alert follows multiple incidents where scammers posed as senior department officers. They have been aggressively soliciting fees under the guise of expedited processing. Burke’s message is clear: suspicious communications should be met with caution. “If you receive a suspicious email or text message, delete it. Always check your ImmiAccount to confirm any communication from Home Affairs is legitimate,” he urged.
Officials recommend that individuals protect themselves by employing unique passphrases, keeping devices updated with the latest software, and utilizing multi-factor authentication wherever available. This advice comes as authorities strive to enhance online safety for all applicants.
As the scam continues to evolve, it is imperative for visa applicants to remain informed and vigilant. The Department of Home Affairs is actively working to combat this fraudulent activity and ensure that genuine applicants can navigate the visa process without falling victim to deception.
Stay tuned for further updates as this situation develops and protect yourself from these fraudulent schemes!
