Telstra is urging customers to be alert to online scams and have warned not to respond to any suspicious emails.

This advice comes as a result of a number of Myall Coast residents receiving fake Telstra email notices sent by scammers during the past week.

The emails claim customers have paid their Telstra account twice and are entitled to a refund which can only be paid to a credit card.

The fake emails request customers to log into “My Account” by clinking on a provided link.

A Telstra spokesperson informed News Of The Area the fake emails are designed to catch customers off guard in an attempt to obtain personal information.

“Phishing emails are designed by cyber criminals who target consumers and large enterprises around the world, including Telstra and our customers,” the spokesperson said.

“These emails look very authentic, often including company logos and slogans, to trick you into opening them and disclosing your personal details, including your name, address and banking details.”

“The fake emails can be distinguished by the absence of a ‘$’ sign next to the amount to be refunded while others have addressed recipients as, Hi, dear customer.”

The spokesperson said Telstra provides refunds if a customer has been charged in error, typically by crediting their account.

“We would not request credit card details specifically for refund purposes and would only provide a refund in this manner if the customer initiated a request.”

Telstra advises customers not to click on any links contained in phishing emails and to delete them immediately from their account.

Phishing emails can be reported to Telstra or to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission at www.scamwatch.gov.au