With an increase in the number of scams in the region being reported recently Lake Illawarra police are reminding residents that criminals do not need to be face-to-face to steal from you.
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And that scammers will go to great lengths to have their targets part with money or information.
Lake Illawarra Police advise that scammers love to offer their targets goods, services, prizes, opportunities, or even love in an attempt for people to disclose banking details or transfer funds to another account.
The message from Lake Illawarra Police is “if it sounds too good to be true, investigate it”.
If it sounds too good to be true, investigate it
- Lake Illawarra Police District
Some scammers even place fear in victims by making them think they have an unpaid bill or debt.
Police have put together some helpful tips to help protect local residents.
Lake Illawarra Police tips to avoid being scammed:
- Never - part with financial information or transfer money to anyone you don't know or trust
- Never - be afraid to seek financial or legal advice before payment
- Never - be pressured into signing something you are not sure about
- Always - confirm the identity of the person/organisation you are talking to
- Always - read any documents you are requested to sign
- Always - contact your back, financial institution or service provider if you have or believe you have been contacted by a scammer or become victim to a scammer.
- Don't be afraid to ask or investigate where you see fit. Legitimate agencies would expect it.
Lake Illawarra Police advise that more information about scams and how to protect yourself can be found at www.scamwatch.gov.au.
And victims of a scam can report it to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission ACCC online at the ‘SCAMwatch’ report a scam’ page or by calling 1300 795 995. Lake Illawarra Police also advise that scams can be reported to any local police station.
A Google Play card scam is one of the latest to hit the Illawarra. Another one affecting local residents in late 2018 was fake electricity bill emails when people were advised not to click on any of the links in the email or the online bill.
Greg Ellis
Almost four decades in electronic, print and digital media. A writer, presenter, emcee, photographer and videographer with degrees in business management, marketing and human resources and tertiary qualifications in photography.
Almost four decades in electronic, print and digital media. A writer, presenter, emcee, photographer and videographer with degrees in business management, marketing and human resources and tertiary qualifications in photography.
