Sunrise host Nat Barr has issued an urgent warning after scammers created fake profiles impersonating her and messaging fans online.
Barr used Friday morning’s program to alert viewers to a growing number of fraudulent social media accounts using her name and photos to contact unsuspecting Australians.
WATCH VIDEO ONLINE: Warning about fake social media impersonation scams
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“Over the past few weeks, I’ve become aware of a growing number of fake social media accounts pretending to be me,” she told viewers.
The presenter said that while she enjoys interacting with viewers through her verified social media accounts, fake profiles have been sending private messages and attempting to strike up conversations with people.
Barr said viewers should be immediately suspicious of any account claiming to be her that asks for personal or financial information.
“I would never contact someone out of the blue claiming I’ve been monitoring their profile,” she said.
“I would never ask for money, investments, gift cards, bank details or personal information.”
The warning comes as authorities continue to report rising numbers of social media impersonation scams targeting Australians.
Scammers often create fake profiles using the names and images of celebrities, journalists and other public figures in an attempt to gain trust before seeking money or sensitive information.
Barr said the fraudsters had become increasingly sophisticated, sometimes copying entire profiles to make the accounts appear legitimate.
She urged anyone who receives a suspicious message claiming to be from her to trust their instincts, block the account and report it immediately.
The Sunrise host also encouraged viewers to check in with friends and family members who may be more vulnerable to online scams.
“I love connecting with you, our amazing Sunrise family,” she said.
“Scammers pretending to be me, do not.”
