IPA Scam Alerts

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Protecting Our Members from Scams

We are aware that some members of the IPA have been targeted by email scams where attackers impersonate the IPA. These scams are designed to trick members into providing personal or financial information. The IPA is committed to keeping you informed and helping you stay protected.

Recognising a Scam Email

To help identify whether an email is legitimate or a scam, always check the following:

  • Email address: All official communication from the IPA will come from a domain ending in @publicaccountants.org.au. If the email address contains misspellings, alternative details, or unfamiliar domains, it might be a scam.
  • Content tone: Be cautious of emails that ask for urgent payments, offer unusual discounts, or request personal information. The IPA will never ask for payments via non-standard methods like Gift Cards, Apple Pay or PayPal in an unsolicited manner.
  • Links and attachments: Avoid clicking on suspicious links or opening attachments unless you are certain they are from a trusted source. Always visit the official IPA website or log into your member portal to verify account details.

Recent Scam Examples

Here is a recent example of a scam targeting our members:

Impersonating IPA President:

Scammers send emails pretending to be Cheryl Mallett, IPA President, requesting payments for operational expenses. These emails do not originate from official IPA domains and should be ignored.

Scam Impersonating IPA President

What You Should Do

If you receive a suspicious email claiming to be from the IPA:

  1. Do not respond to the email or provide any personal or financial information.
  2. Verify the email by checking the sender’s domain or contacting the IPA Member directly via 1800 625 625.
  3. Report the scam: Forward the email to our Member Support team at [email protected].

Staying Safe Online

To further protect yourself from scams, always:

  • Be cautious of emails requesting payments or personal information.
  • Log into your IPA member portal to verify any outstanding payments or updates.
  • Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication where possible.
  • Attend our Cyber Security & Technology CPD Sessions to stay up to date with the latest to keep you safe - such as our self-paced online Cyber Defender Short Course designed to teach essential cyber security skills including spotting and stopping cyber intrusions.
  • Learn more about protecting yourself online at Australian Cyber Security Centre or Scamwatch.