Is it a scam?

A very common question: Is this a scam?

While the answer is "if it sounds too good to be true, then it's probably a scam" is correct, there are many instances when the scammer uses pressure, fear and threats to scam people.

Many cases of innocent people simply bamboozled by scammers.

The clear message..

No government, company or Police would ever telephone an Australian with a threat.. simple! IT IS A SCAM

If the caller threatens

Imprisonment

Penalty

Violence

Harm

IT IS A SCAM ?

If the caller says

Do not call anyone (ie friends, family, Police)

You are in danger

You must carry out instructions immediately

Wants money

Instructs you to do anything

IT IS A SCAM

COMMON SCAMS

Scammers are very clever! They use tricks to impersonate, copy and appear as anyone or anything. Scammers can sound like Government, Police and officials. Scammers can make anything sound or look real.

You MUST (we repeat "must").. believe it is a SCAM before proceeding..

? IT IS A SCAM ?

How to spot a scam

pretend to be from an organisation you trust and ask for your personal details in a call or a text.

say that you have won a prize or there's money waiting for you.
use logos and copy real text messages to look legitimate.

disguise their number/s, to make it look like they're calling from somewhere local.

THESE ARE SCAMS

Most common scams..

Many websites (check the www address)

Online dating websites

Puppy sales

Hidden phone numbers

HELP

The ACCC and Scamwatch protects every Australian from scams, scammers and bad people.

If you have been threatened, assaulted or had your property stolen, contact your local police immediately.

Protect yourself from scams

Scammers are getting increasingly sophisticated in their attempts to get your money or personal details. Be alert and protect yourself from being scammed by following our tips.

Scams target everyone

Protect yourself

How to spot a fake

Follow up scams

www.scamwatch.gov.au

Where to get help

Contact people you know

Contact your financial institution

Recover your stolen identity

Report scams to the authorities

Get help from Australian agencies

Report scams to Facebook services

Change your online passwords

Contact your local consumer protection agency