Take some time during national fraud
week to wise up to scams.
Scammers are getting increasingly sophisticated in their attempts to get
your money or personal details. You should be alert and protect yourself from
being scammed by following some simple advice.
·
Do not let anyone pressure you into making
decisions. Scammers often try to create a sense of urgency so you will act
impulsively. They do this through short deadlines, fake emergencies or threats
of legal action.
·
Get a second opinion. If someone is
requesting money from you and you have any doubts, discuss it with a trusted
and reliable third party.
·
Investment opportunities. Do not
respond to emails and phone calls from strangers offering predictions on
shares, investment tips, or investment advice. Always do your own research
before you invest any money and check the company or scheme is licensed on
ASIC's MoneySmart
website.
·
Dating online. Know who you're dealing with.
Don't send money to someone you've never met in person. If someone approaches
you on social media and you don't know them, it may be a scam.
·
Cold call offering help with your computer. If you
receive a call claiming to be from Microsoft, Telstra or anyone else telling
you your computer has a problem, it is likely to be a scam. Never allow anyone
to remotely log into your computer.
The best protection available is to obtain information from reliable and
trustworthy sources.
Source:
https://www.pssap.gov.au/national-consumer-fraud-week-2016/
