Stay Alert For Scammers

Darling Downs residents have been targeted by scammers and it’s a timely reminder to be vigilant about a quick fix to financial pressures. If it is too good to be true then it probably is.

How do these scammers work?

​​The Internet provides a medium whereby unscrupulous operators can target consumers, with the marketing of illegal schemes and scams. Some of the more common scams include:

• Get rich quick schemes
• Miracle health products
• Competitions & lotteries
• Pyramid/referring selling/multi-level marketing
• Nigerian loan/investment scams
• Work at home schemes

With the advancement of technology, email has become a fast and efficient method of forwarding unsolicited scam information to bulk recipients. Your address could have been obtained from various sources, including a virus affected address book that automatically sends or forwards mail without the knowledge of the user, or from online databases.

Be sceptical of individuals representing themselves as Nigerian or foreign government officials asking for your help in placing large sums of money in overseas bank accounts. Do not believe the promise of large sums of money for your cooperation.

The dollar signs $$$ may look appealing but don’t let it inhibit your ability to think logically. Scammers are convincing but before you hand over any money do a little more research. A simple tip to remember, if you did not initiate it then think about it.

There is ample information available on the internet in relation to scams currently marketed worldwide and the precautions to follow. Some of the following offer advice on spotting cyber scams and methods to protect you from becoming a victim:

www.scamwatch.gov.au
www.accc.gov.au/consumers/online-shopping
www.staysmartonline.gov.au
www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au
www.fbi.gov/scams-safety/fraud/internet_fraud

by Sergeant Tony Rehn

To subscribe to updates of scams, go to the Scamwatch website here.

To report Cyber Crime, visit the ACORN website here.