HOLIDAY SEASON SCAMS to avoid!
OUTSMART FRAUDSTERS AND PROTECT YOUR CASH THIS CHRISTMAS
There’s no denying that scammers are getting sneakier, which has led to government website Scamwatch urging Aussies to be extra vigilant. Already this year, Australians have reported a record $211 million in losses to scams from January 1 to September 19. This is an 89 per cent increase compared to the same period last year, according to their data. And that is set to increase over the holiday season when scammers
capitalise on the fact that we’re shopping, giving to charity and looking to travel again. Here’s what to look out for in the lead-up to Christmas.
MISSED DELIVERY THE SCAM:
According to Scamwatch, there have been 16,000 reports of scam text messages about missed deliveries since August this year. Messages can include tracking a delivery, or telling you it’s your last chance to arrange pick up or delivery of a parcel. The text messages ask you to tap on a link to download an app to track or organise a delivery time. However, the message is fake, there is no delivery and the app is malicious software called Flubot.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO:
Scamwatch explains the text messages are easy to spot, as they contain a website link followed by five to nine random letters and numbers. If you receive one of these messages, do not click or tap on the link. Delete the message immediately. If you have accidentally downloaded the malware, contact an IT professional for advice and make sure your accounts are secure by contacting your bank.
FAKE CHARITIES THE SCAM:
Scammers know that Christmas is a time for giving. They are increasingly using bogus charities or impersonating real ones to take advantage of people’s generosity and compassion, with losses reported to
Scamwatch on the rise. They may approach people on the street or be doorknocking. They have also been known to set up fake websites that look similar to legitimate charities. They may phone you up to ask for donations too.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO:
Ensure your Christmas donation is going to a legitimate charity by phoning them directly or making a payment via their website. If you are giving to a doorknocker or street collector, ask to see their identification and consider asking them a few questions about where the donation will be going. You can check a charity is legitimate by looking up their credentials on the Australian Charities and Not-forprofits Commission (ACNC) website at acnc.gov.au/charity
HOLIDAY TO NOWHERE THE SCAM:
Now NSW and Victoria are out of lockdown, lots of people will be doing some last-minute travel planning. This is where scammers take advantage. Be aware of emails and websites advertising deals that seem too good to be true. According to Delia Rickard from the ACCC, your personal information is often just as valuable to a scammer as your money, so be careful about details you give.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO:
Watch out for fake accommodation vouchers, scam travel clubs and people asking you to pay upfront deposits for properties that aren’t actually available for rent. “If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is,” says Delia. “Do your research on any online stores you’re using, especially if it’s for the first time.”
SHOPPING SITE DUPE THE SCAM:
An email arrives in your inbox or a text on your phone from someone pretending to be from Amazon or Ebay, claiming a large purchase has been made on your credit card. This scam sees people posing as employees from well-known companies to verify large spends. According to Delia, when you inform them you haven’t made the purchase and they pretend to help you process a refund, they actually gain remote access to your computer to steal your personal and banking details. Because they are claiming to be from a reputable merchant, it’s likely the recipient has bought something from there in the past and may not think it’s a scam.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO:
Don’t click on the link. Never give your personal information to anyone you don’t know and trust. People who suspect they may be a victim of identity theft should contact IDCARE on 1800 595 160 or via idcare.org – this free government-funded service works with individuals whose personal info is being misused.