The year has seen a fresh start for fraudsters and scam artists, seeing another spike in COVID-19 scams and text-based cons.
ACM has compiled a list of current scams identified on sites such as scamwatch.gov.au, cyber.gov.au and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s website dedicated to informing people about fraudulent and dishonest activities.
BE WARY: Do your research before paying for holiday deals that seem too good to be true.
- Adventurers keen to start travelling again are being warned of holiday-related scams.
- Fake websites will often advertise holiday deals that seem to good to be true.
- Often the scammer will convince a victim to pay a deposit or total amount for a holiday package. Once the funds are received the scammer disappears.
- Only book from secure sites that are known and trusted.
- Always check each website’s URL to make sure it’s legitimate and secure.
- If purchasing from a company for the first time, research and check reviews.
- Never wire money directly to a seller.
- Avoid paying for items with pre-paid gift cards. In these scams, a seller will ask you to send them a gift card number and PIN.
Scamwatch: Beware of holiday deals too good to be true
- These scams target people seeking new rental accommodation by offering fake rental properties to convince people into handing over money or personal information, according to www.accc.gov.au.
- The scammer will post advertisements on real estate or classified websites or target people who have posted on social…
