Sounds too good to be true? Scam

More than 2000 reports of scams were received by Consumer Affairs Victoria (CAV) during 2020-21.

Requests for money transfers, phishing and fake missed call or text messages are among the top five scams targeting Victorians, according to data revealed by CAV.

Promises of large sums of money, in return for an upfront payment, topped the list with 660 reports in 2020-21, compared to just 330 in the previous financial year.

According to the ACCC’s Scamwatch, financial scams have caused the most losses this year, so far costing Australians more than $114 million. Victorians have lost $30 million to financial scams.

People aged over 65 are most likely to fall victim to financial scams.

Crime Stoppers Victoria Chief Executive Stella Smith said scammers will target older people because they are less likely to tell anyone.

“That’s why talking with your parents and grandparents is an important step in scam prevention.”

Many people who experience a scam never report it to anyone due to feelings of shame, but it’s important to keep talking to reduce stigma and prevent scams from happening in the first place.

Minister for Consumer Affairs, Gaming and Liquor Regulation Melissa Horne said there is no shame in being caught out by a scam.

“It’s important to keep having conversations to understand the warning signs before it is too late,” she said.

“Scams can cause both financial and emotional distress. The best defence is to speak out, educate yourself on what a scam looks like and continue raising awareness to prevent others falling victim.”

Victorians are encouraged to keep the conversation going by reminding their family and friends to do their research before sending any payment to online sellers and to never give money or bank details to claim a prize.

To read the full story – Simply click on the following link

https://issuu.com/themooraboolnews/docs/mn_2021-11-23/14

in the 23 November 2021 edition
OR
pick up a paper around your town.