Australians beware: scammers are getting more sophisticated

Scammers are constantly evolving and becoming more sophisticated in their methods. Australian Community Media has compiled a list of current scams doing the rounds. If you have been the victim of a scam, report it to scamwatch.gov.au/report-a-scam.

•Scammers are constantly evolving and becoming more sophisticated.
• Australian Community Media has compiled a list of current scams.
• If you have been the victim of a scam, report it to scamwatch.gov.au/report-a-scam.
• Holiday scams: scammers set up fake websites which look genuine in order to get your money or personal information; always book flights through legitimate sources; be cautious when purchasing very cheap airfares; check that the ABN quoted on a flight booking website is registered to the trader named on the site.

Holiday scams: scammers set up fake websites which look genuine to get your money or personal information; always book flights through legitimate sources; be cautious when purchasing very cheap airfares; check that the ABN quoted on a flight booking website is registered to the trader named on the site.

Christmas shopping scams: scammers take advantage of Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales by setting up fake online stores; many of these websites offer luxury items at meager prices to get your money or personal information; newer version involves social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram, where scammers will create fake pages and advertise deals that do not exist; if an offer looks too good to be true, it probably is.

Scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, so it’s essential to be aware of the current ones doing the rounds. If you think you have been the victim of a scam, report it immediately to authorities. Don’t let yourself become a victim this holiday season – stay alert and be safe!