Scams target individuals from all backgrounds, ages and income levels throughout Australia. There isn’t a specific group of people that is more likely to be a victim of a scam. All of us are susceptible to scams at one point in time.
Scams are successful because they appear as real and catch you by surprise even when you don’t expect it. The scammers are becoming more sophisticated and taking advantage of the latest technology, innovative products and services and significant incidents to make convincing stories that can get you to provide them with your personal or financial information.
One of the most common ways for scammers to swindle customers is through frauds on shopping online. Beware of fake websites or apps that appear to be a company or brand that you have come across.
Double-check the URL by searching for an icon of a lock, and make sure that it begins in “https:” like you would see at NetBet Sport. Make sure you’re on a secure and reliable Wi-Fi network. Although it might be simple to hit the “Buy Now” button from your smartphone or laptop, entering your credit card number on public Wi-Fi may increase the likelihood of becoming prey to fraudsters.
But what are other ways to spot a scam?
- Offers that appear from the out of the
- request you to share the details of your bank account or to verify a password PIN
- prizes which require you to pay upfront to take advantage of winnings
- limited-time offers that require for you to act swiftly
- businesses with vague contact information that are not clear, like an address with a company with no contact information, such as a PO Box and mobile phone number or an expensive rate number typically starting with 090
- businesses that keep calling you and then call you back for a long period of time
- private offers that you’re instructed not to share with family or acquaintances about.
Scammers are also able to scam you around the time of the holidays with packages and letters.
If you’re anticipating a delivery, the shippers, as well as delivery services, will supply updates on the status of your package. Scammers could send fake email messages that pretend to belong to these businesses. Keep in mind this: UPS, FedEx, and other shippers won’t ask you for your personal details by email.
And how can you increase your internet security to avoid these scams?
- Install a firewall or increase your protection
- Keep your browser secure by installing updates immediately after they are made
- Make sure your system’s operating software is up-to-date
- Choose a trusted anti-virus software and make sure you update it frequently
- Make use of an anti-spam filter
- Make sure you have an anti-spyware application
- Eliminate cookies as often as is possible
- Log on to the internet as a user instead of as an administrator.
Always be on the lookout if someone is trying to pass as a friend, acquaintance, or relative. if they tell you they have a new number, make them verify their identity with a picture or a voice call.
If you receive suspicious emails or text messages, you can always check the status of your package right through the website of the delivery company.
A stack of boxes in front of your home could be a prime victim for poachers who hunt on porches. Keep track of your packages so you can know when they’ll arrive, and you can make sure they’re delivered securely. If you’re planning to leave town but anticipate deliveries, consider holding your mail in the postal office till your return. You can also ask a neighbor to pick them up for you.
