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Never before have consumers been at greater risk of fraud, deception, and deceit.

Nothing and no-one is out of scope! 

Welcome to the world of scamming, impostors, dodgy products, practices, and deals that are too good to be true!   

Let’s look at the Scam ‘hit’ list! 

Luxury goods, toys and exclusive items are being copied for the lucrative counterfeit market. Think you are buying one of those popular cute plush ‘dolls’, the must-have possession of 2025, buyer beware to avoid fakes. Or if you are buying the cheaper look alike version shoppers are being warned that these have failed some of the Australian safety standards. 

With Christmas and the festive season only weeks away, fake texts and emails are already circulating. Scams using text messages impersonating Australia Post delivery services and trusted brands are becoming more common. Shoppers are being advised to be wary and stay alert if receiving messages that give a ‘bizarre’ list of instructions, have a sense of urgency and request personal information and bank details. Consumer Protection encourages consumers to report any incidents or concerns. 

Complaints about dodgy services and practices in the beauty and cosmetics business have been received by Consumer Protection WA in the past year. Complaints of dodgy eyebrow tattoos, haircuts and Botox head the list highlighting poor service, practitioner skills, and misleading representation. 

The agency spokesperson, however, suggests the number is likely to be higher than reported, as consumers are embarrassed for having used cosmetic services or about how they have been affected. Consumer Protection advises it welcomes and is open to receiving complaints of this kind.  

Tips to avoid Cons, Scams and Dodgy deals:  

• Stop and think before you act  

• Don't click links or open attachments from unknown sources 

• Never give out personal or financial information unless you have initiated the contact 

• Use multiple-factor authentication and strong passwords to secure your devices 

• Monitor your bank accounts and credit card statements for transactions and activity 

• Verify Business and contact details independently 

• Sight & check credentials of Providers/ Practitioners 

• Check the ABN of Australian Businesses 

• Be sceptical, if the offer sounds too good to be true, then likely it is false, fake or fraudulent 

• Report to the relevant Authorities any suspicious activity