False claims regarding a purported bonus Centrelink payment have been circulating online, causing concern among recipients and advocacy groups alike. Misleading information suggests that Centrelink customers will receive a “bonus” payment this month, specifically targeting vulnerable individuals during an economically challenging time.
One particularly alarming piece of misinformation originated from a little-known website that claimed seniors would automatically receive a $1,600 Christmas bonus on December 20. Other similar sites have echoed this assertion, with some even alleging that older Australians would receive an $800 pension boost. However, Services Australia has firmly stated that these claims are entirely fictitious.
Hank Jongen, general manager of Services Australia, emphasized that the spreading of such misinformation is a pressing issue, especially as the holiday season approaches. He urged the public to exercise caution and not fall victim to these scams. “We know scammers can be opportunistic, so this Christmas we’d like to remind people to be vigilant,” he said.
The stories promoting these imaginary bonuses have infiltrated various online platforms, reaching users through social media and even Google’s Discover feature. The sites present a smorgasbord of fictitious amounts, claiming payouts of $750, $950, $1,800, and even $4,100 that do not exist. There have also been unfounded assertions regarding changes to the pension age, further contributing to the misinformation landscape.
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These deceptive websites often monetize their content through clicks and advertising, leading to a cycle where falsehoods proliferate for profit. Their ease of creation, often facilitated by AI-generated content, makes them deceptively credible and difficult to regulate or shut down.
Jongen advised that the best way for individuals to safeguard against these scams is to bypass clickbait headlines and rely solely on verified information from official Services Australia websites. As misinformation continues to spread, vigilance remains key to protecting oneself and ensuring that genuine support reaches those who truly need it.
