mmg.com.au

The Federal Government yesterday issued a warning to Shepparton residents to be aware of doorknockers posing as Centrelink representatives.

In recent weeks scam doorknockers have targeted several homes in Shepparton and surrounding townships asking to check and update personal details, Department of Human Services general manager Hank Jongen said.

‘‘People need to be vigilant,’’ Mr Jongen said.

‘‘I can’t stress enough — do not provide any personal details to people who knock at your door and say they are Centrelink representatives.

‘‘We do not doorknock. This is not normal practice and customer details are only updated when you contact us, via phone or by visiting the Shepparton service centre.

‘‘Customers can also update and access their own personal information if they are registered for our online services.’’

He said it was ‘‘unfortunate and despicable’’ a small number of people were attempting to intrude on people at home.

‘‘It appears to be an attempt to defraud them of their personal information and possible benefits,’’ he said.

‘‘I urge anyone who receives a visit from these scammers to report any details, including the time, date, any phone number, gender or accent of the person to the Australian Government’s Fraud Tip-off line on 131524.’’

For more information, visit www.scamwatch.gov.au