Scamwatch is expecting criminals to cash in on the holiday season
Scammers know you’ll be busy, distracted and spending more money at this time of year. While you’re hurrying to get last-minute gifts delivered on time and holidays booked, it’s important to slow down and be alert to scams.
Criminals might try to make the most of on the holiday season through shopping and delivery scams, scratchie and prize scams, and travel and gambling scams.
What the scams might look like
Fake shopping sites and social media accounts pretending to be well known brands.
Scam sellers on online marketplaces.
Emails and texts about missed deliveries or unpaid fees.
Road toll invoices.
Fake online gambling and betting sites.
Scam using printed material in your letter box promoting fake travel giveaways or instant prizes. These might include a scratch card, or scratchie.
Stay safe from scams this festive season
STOP. Don’t provide information in response to unsolicited contact, and if an offer’s too good to be true it usually is!
CHECK. Make sure the person or organisation you’re dealing with is real. Search for the official website of a business you want to purchase from and read independent reviews (not those on the business’s website or social media) before purchasing.
PROTECT. If you think you’ve been scammed, act quickly! Contact your bank immediately if you you’ve had money stolen or shared financial details. The What to do if you’ve been scammed page on scamwatch.gov.au has more steps you can follow.
To report scams and find more info go to https://www.scamwatch.gov.au/
