Be Aware Of The Risks
We detail here several examples of how scammers may try and get money from you.
Believe it or not, several of these methods have been successfully played out by scammers against Waves residents who have been victims of some of these scams.
The examples given have all been successful against Australians of all ages, even those aware that such scams exist.
Never act in haste when making deals or making payments.
- You just ordered something online (Amazon, JB, etc.) and you get an email saying there is a Address / ID / tracking issue. You're expecting something so click through because you're distracted.
- You've been having issues with your PC/Internet (which you don't understand at all) and you get a call from someone saying they've identified the issues and can help you fix it.
- You're selling something expensive online and the person says they're happy to transfer the full amount into your Paypal or bank account first so you can verify you have all the money. (You still get scammed in the end)
- Never do a deal where you are asked to buy gift cards to make a payment or to keep your money safe. It’s a scam every time.
- A family member/friend send you a text message that they have dropped their phone in the toilet and need some cash right away. They can’t talk to you as the phone is not working. Don’t send money, it’s a scam.
- You do a deal with someone from another city/state for a car/caravan/pure-bred dog/cat. They ask for $xxx now with the balance paid when you collect/receive the item. Don’t send money, it’s a scam.
- You're looking to get an AirBNB and hit a good value listing. They send back a cancellation (double booked) but with some similar alternatives that are also great value. You click the email provided link to a fake AirBnB site unknowingly.
- You answer a phone call and the caller knows your first name. Then they ask you to tell them your details so they can confirm they are talking to the right person. They could be from NBN, Telstra, a Bank, Credit Card company (Visa/Mastercard) etc. Next they ask you to download and install some needed software so they can fix your problem. Don’t do it. Hang-up, it’s a scam.
- You saw a great deal on Facebook by someone you have not dealt with previously and that deal expires today. Click the link and make the payment with your Visa/Mastercard. Goodbye money. You may receive a package with a rock in it.
- You have been conversing with a business via email and get the final request from them with bank payment details. Turns out the companies email account was hacked and that last email came from the hackers.
Maybe this next one will not happen here as we have few who work.
- Your "boss" emails you out of hours and says he wants to get everyone gift cards as a small bonus for this Friday. Could you get some from the shops this evening and email him the numbers? Please use the company credit card.