Local businesses targeted in scam email

Council has been informed of a hoax email that seems to have targeted local businesses advising them of alleged overdue accounts and asking them to forward confidential business information.

The emails are being sent from what appears to be a Council email address; however, Council has confirmed that this hoax email has not been sent by any area within Council.

Director of Corporate and Community Services, Pauline Gordon, said that it would appear that the scammers are gathering information from the businesses. “The scammers seem to be trying to gather information about the businesses and their financial matters, rather than simply requesting money be paid,” said Pauline. “It’s concerning and we want to make sure that all businesses in the region are aware of this matter and do not respond or take any further action.”

Pauline said that if any businesses or locals are unsure about any correspondence they receive from Council, to please call 1300 307 800 to confirm.

For more information on how to protect yourself and your business from scams, visit https://www.scamwatch.gov.au.