CANBERRA, ACT, Sept. 15 -- Australian Federal Police issued the following media release:
Editor's note:Vision and images from the arrest and seized items available via Hightail.
A NSW South Coast man is expected to face Batemans Bay Local Court today (15 September, 2025) over an alleged mobile phishing scam targeting customers of a telecommunications provider.
Police allege that in early August, 2025, the Tomakin man sent phishing text messages to customers claiming their mobile service would be restricted due to missed payments.
These messages allegedly included a link to a malicious website designed to harvest personal information and banking details.
The AFP commenced an investigation on 20 August, 2025, after receiving a report from the telecommunications provider that some of their customers had allegedly been subjected to malicious cyber activities.
On 9 September, 2025, the AFP executed a search warrant at a residence in Tomakin, NSW, and arrested the man. Police seized evidentiary items including computers, laptops, mobile devices, and SIM cards, with a number of mobile devices allegedly found down an in-ground drainage pipe.
A subsequent forensic assessment of one laptop allegedly revealed a substantial quantity of files containing the personally identifiable information of other people, including usernames, passwords, and credentials for a range of websites and applications.
Police are continuing efforts to identify the origin of the files and will collaborate with any affected individuals or organisations to determine potential victims of fraud or identity theft.
The man, 36, has been charged with:
* One count of produce/supply/obtain data with intent to commit a computer offence, contrary to section 478.4(1) of the Criminal Code (Cth). This offence carries a maximum penalty of three years' imprisonment; and * One count of dishonestly obtain/deal in personal financial information, contrary to section 480.4 of the Criminal Code (Cth). This offence carries a maximum penalty of five years' imprisonment.
AFP Detective Inspector Steven Wiggins said the AFP worked diligently with law enforcement and industry partners to disrupt criminal activity and protect Australians from cybercrime.
"Cybercrime offending is becoming increasingly sophisticated, demanding a more advanced and targeted response to scam activity by police," Det Insp Wiggins said.
"ScamWatch* data shows more than 108,000 reports of scams and financial losses in the first six months of 2025, with losses to the Australian economy during this time estimated at more than $174 million.
"Scams don't discriminate and can affect anyone, which is why greater awareness is so important.
"Police, government, business, and individuals all have a role to play in building a scam-aware community, meaning criminals who engage in these practices are less likely to succeed.
"I would encourage anyone who has been the victim of a scam, even if you did not suffer a loss, to make a report to the relevant authorities.
"Every report helps track patterns and protect others in our community."
The AFP is committed to equipping all Australians with the knowledge and resources to protect themselves against cybercrime.
Watch ourcybercrime prevention videosand protect yourself and others from being a victim of cybercrime.
If there is an immediate threat to life or risk of harm, call 000.
If you are a victim of cybercrime, report it to police using the report button via theAustralian Cyber Security Centre website.
If you, or someone you know needs help, we encourage you to contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636, who provide 24/7 support services.
*Source: ScamWatch
Disclaimer: Curated by HT Syndication.
