SCAM WATCH
We thought it was a really good time to remind everyone that scammers are increasing their efforts to trick you into providing your personal information for something that looks like a legitimate service or offer.
The government website you need to look at is the COVID-19 (coronavirus) scams | Scamwatch
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What is disturbing is that currently there are Covid scams, vaccination scams and even scams impersonating government departments.
About COVID-19 scams
Scamwatch has received over 6415 scam reports mentioning the coronavirus with more than $9,800,000 in reported losses since the outbreak of COVID-19 (coronavirus). Common scams include phishing for personal information, online shopping, and superannuation scams.
If you have been scammed or have seen a scam, you can make a report on the Scamwatch website, and find more information about where to get help.
We urge everyone to be cautious and remain alert to coronavirus-related scams. Scammers are hoping that you have let your guard down. Do not provide your personal, banking or superannuation details to strangers who have approached you.
Scammers may pretend to have a connection with you. So it’s important to stop and check, even when you are approached by what you think is a trusted organisation
How scammers contact you
During a crisis like COVID-19, you may be isolated and using online services more than ever, so it is important to think about who might be really contacting you. They may find you by:
- calling you or coming to your door
- contacting you via social media, email or text message
- setting up websites that look real, and impersonating government, business or even your friends
- collecting information about you so that when they make contact they are more convincing.
For more information on current scams impacting Australia, visit SCAMWATCH: https://www.scamwatch.gov.au/types-of-scams