# Beware of Scammers Imitating ASIC: Important Alert for Registry Customers
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has raised an important alert regarding a new wave of email scams targeting Registry customers. These fraudulent activities are being carried out by scammers who falsely present themselves as ASIC, using look-alike domains to deceive unsuspecting individuals.
## How These Scams Operate
Typically, these scammers send emails that impersonate official communication from ASIC. Their goal is to trick customers into paying fees and providing personal information under the guise of renewing their business or company name. The malicious emails often include links directing the recipients to input their ASIC usernames and passwords, posing a risk of malware infection upon clicking.
## Key Indicators of a Scam Email
To protect yourself from falling victim to these scams, it is crucial to be aware of the following indicators:
1. **Payment Requests**: Be cautious if you receive unsolicited demands for payments over the phone or offers for a refund. ASIC will never request payments in this manner.
2. **Personal Information Requests**: Do not provide credit card or bank details via email or phone unless you are certain of the legitimacy of the request. ASIC does not ask for such personal information directly through these channels.
3. **Discrepant Fees**: Scammers often request fee amounts that differ from those published on ASIC’s official website. Always cross-check any payment requests with the official fee structure on the ASIC website.
4. **Unusual Timeframes**: Be skeptical of emails that arrive outside of ASIC’s standard renewal notice period, which is usually 30 days prior to the renewal date. Any communication falling outside this window should be treated with suspicion.
## What to Do If You Receive a Suspicious Email
If you encounter an email that you suspect to be a scam:
– **Do Not Click on Any Links**: Avoid clicking on any links contained in the suspicious email to prevent potential malware infection.
– **Forward the Email**: Report the suspected scam by forwarding the entire email to the designated ASIC email fraud reporting address.
– **If Scammed, Take Immediate Action**: Should you find yourself a victim, do not send any more money. Promptly report the incident to your bank or financial institution. Also, be vigilant of secondary scams that may attempt to capitalize on your situation by offering false recovery services.
Protecting your personal and financial information is of utmost importance. Stay informed and exercise caution to safeguard against these fraudulent activities.
You can safely renew your business name with Registration Pty Ltd, an ASIC Registered Agent at their website Reg.com.au
