With the festive season nearly upon us, ’tis the season for online scams.
The Financial and Cyber Crime Group are reminding Queenslanders to be aware of Grinch-like scammers and be sure to stay alert to scams, such as phishing scams.
While retail marketing can go into overdrive at this time of year, if you receive an unsolicited email or text message, consider the possibility that it could be fraudulent.
Scammers often use this method – known as phishing emails or smishing for texts or instant messaging to drive people towards a fake website.
From here, scammers may attempt to steal money or personal data, or may infect your device with malware.
Avoid clicking on links and if you are unsure about the message authenticity, best to delete it and check it by calling the organisation using contact details from a verified website.
For information on fake websites, click on the link below:
To learn more about scams, visit www.scamwatch.gov.au or the Queensland Police Service’s R U in Control campaign at www.police.qld.gov.au/safety-and-preventing-crime/r-u-in-control.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
You can report information about crime anonymously to Crime Stoppers, a registered charity and community volunteer organisation, via crimestoppersqld.com.au 24hrs per day.
