The Australian Federal Police allege a 36-year-old Tomakin man used this setup to conduct a mobile phishing scam. Photo: AFP.
A Tomakin man will face Batemans Bay Local Court over an alleged mobile phishing scam, Australian Federal Police say.
Police allege that in early August 2025, the 36-year-old man sent phishing text messages to customers of a telecommunications company 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 began to investigate on 20 August after the telecommunications provider reported that some of their customers were allegedly subjected to malicious cyber activities.
On 9 September, 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,” the AFP spokesperson said.
“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 has been charged with one count of producing, supplying or obtaining data with the intent to commit a computer offence and one count of dishonestly obtaining or dealing in personal financial information.
The offences carry maximum penalties of three and five years’ imprisonment, respectively.
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.”
If you are a victim of cybercrime, report it to police using the report button via the Australian Cyber Security Centre website.
If there is an immediate threat to life or risk of harm, call 000.
If you, or someone you know needs help, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636, who provide 24/7 support services.
Original Article published by Zoe Cartwright on Region Illawarra.
