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A potential cyber scam victim

Think it couldn’t, wouldn’t, won’t happen to you?

Think again!

According to a recent report we are all at risk of falling victim to SCAMMERS!

Research commissioned by the ACCC showed ‘96% of the population was exposed to scams in the five years to 2021.’

We all need to heed the warnings!

This message broadcast during Scams Awareness week,

‘scammers are a lot more versatile; they evolve quickly and their tactics are becoming increasingly sophisticated and unscrupulous!’

They are relentless in their endeavours and activities, and ever creative in the ways they target the unsuspecting public and Businesses; their mission, to get your money and personal information. 

Examples are more refined spins on their ‘popular’ online purchase and romance scams by incorporating cryptocurrencies or recent events into their messages, and some adopting newer technology'

Scammers tactics include the following;

• Over 45s are targeted with remote access attacks. Criminals posing as tech support to gain access to a victim's device under the guise of performing services.
• Younger people don’t escape. They are targeted with employment and investment scams, for example, pyramid schemes and fake cryptocurrency offers.
• With recent high profile data breaches criminals are posing as government departments and Businesses to carry out identity theft.
• ‘Mum and Dad’ scams targeting unsuspecting parents. Scammers pose as family members asking for help, send some money!
• FREE and GIVEAWAYS - don’t fall for the word ‘free’ when it comes to offers of investment, goods or job offers!
• Scammers say there is a problem or a prize. They can help! Give them your details! Problems you owe money, you are in trouble with a Government agency or there is a family emergency. Prizes- lottery, raffles – send personal information to claim your winnings.

The SCAMS awareness campaign encourages the public to learn about and look out for common scam signs.

The ACCC aims to empower people, by informing the public through raising awareness and providing education, essential tools in helping combat cyber threats.  With a better understanding they are more able to protect themselves and look for tell-tale indicators.   

Action:

• If you think you have been scammed, contact your financial institution immediately.
• Report incidences to SCAMWATCH - scamwatch.gov.au

The Latest scams

With Christmas shopping and mega sales happening scammers are out there just waiting to get their next victim! DON’T let it be you! ! Think before you click or reply!

READ on to help yourself to be better informed and more vigilant

• Shopping online, be aware of ‘fake’ Online shops.
• A newer version involves the use of social media platforms to fake online stores. The store opens for a brief time selling fake jewellery or branded clothing.  After some sales, the stores disappear.
• Watch out for ‘fake’ websites that look like the real thing, often using stolen designs and credentials.
• Methods of payment. The biggest indicator that a retail website is scam is the method payment. If asked for payment by wire transfer, money order, or pre-paid money card, if you do so, unlikely you will receive your bought goods.

Texts:

Phishing scams that use text messages as a way of gaining YOUR personal and financial information.

More scams, check these!

• Messages claiming to be major retailers, examples Big W, Kmart and JB HiFi.
• Texts claiming a loan has been approved and asking you to call a number immediately.
• Messages from MyGov or Medicare advising you have a refund due.
• Texts, emails claiming to be the ATO. Send me your file number! No!
• Text you have WON, a car, major prize or holiday! Really! Sounds too good to be true!

Key takeaways - Do’s and Don’ts

• Do think before you click or reply
• Do monitor your accounts
• Do contact your Bank immediately if concerned
• Do change your passwords
• Do think twice before sharing personal details
• Do report suspicious activity

     X  Don’t give financial or personal information in response to a request that you’re not       expecting. Legitimate, real organisations won’t call, email or text to ask for your personal details, such as social security number, tax file, credit card or bank account.

     X  Don’t call the number they gave you or from a caller ID

 Be smart! Be Alert!