### Beware of Scammers Impersonating ASIC
As an authorised government body, we would like to make you aware of an important notice regarding scammers who have been impersonating the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and targeting Registry customers through deceptive emails.
These fraudulent emails are designed to resemble legitimate communications from ASIC by using look-alike domains. Their primary aim is to deceive recipients into providing personal information and payment details, often by requesting fees to renew business or company names. Unfortunately, clicking on links within these emails can lead to the theft of ASIC usernames and passwords and may infect your computer with malware.
### How to Identify Scam Emails
To protect yourself from these fraudulent activities, be vigilant and watch out for the following red flags:
– **Asking for Payment Over the Phone:** ASIC will never request payment over the phone.
– **Requesting Payment for Refunds:** Be cautious of emails asking for payment in order to process a refund.
– **Requesting Credit Card or Bank Details Directly:** ASIC will never ask for sensitive information such as credit card or bank details in an email.
– **Payment Amounts Different from ASIC Website:** Verify the fee amounts against those listed on the official ASIC website to ensure they match.
– **Emails Outside of Usual Timeframes:** ASIC typically sends notifications 30 days before the renewal date. Any email received outside this timeframe should be scrutinised.
### Official ASIC Communication
Please note that genuine ASIC notifications will come from the email address ASIC.Transaction.No-reply@asic.gov.au. Any communication claiming to be from ASIC but using a different email address should be treated with suspicion.
### What to Do If You Receive a Potential Scam Email
If you receive an email that you suspect to be fraudulent, it is important that you do not engage with it further. Please forward any potential scam emails to the appropriate authorities for investigation.
### Actions If You Think You Have Been Scammed
If you believe you have fallen victim to one of these scams, take the following actions immediately:
– **Do Not Send More Money:** Refrain from sending any additional funds, as this could exacerbate the situation.
– **Report to Your Financial Institution:** Inform your bank or financial institution as soon as possible.
– **Contact ASIC for Assistance:** Reach out to ASIC for further guidance and support.
### Staying Vigilant
By remaining vigilant and cautious, you can help protect yourself from these fraudulent activities. Ensure that you always verify the authenticity of any communication purportedly from ASIC before taking any action. Your security and peace of mind are of the utmost importance to us.
Stay safe and informed.
You can safely renew your business name with Registration Pty Ltd, an ASIC Registered Agent at their website Reg.com.au