Protect yourself against scams

A scam is a dishonest or illegal activity that tricks people into giving away money, personal information, intimate images or something else of value. An online scam is usually run by someone with a fake profile or a fake business. So, while the internet can be a wonderful place to explore, it pays to be cautious!

Being aware of scammers is one of the important steps towards avoiding them. Once you know their tricks, you are more likely to be able to spot a scam. Staying alert is your best defense. Here are some top tips for recognizing and avoiding scams.

 

Protect your personal information

Scammers try to access your personal information by asking you questions or giving you instructions via a phone call, email, text, or through social media. Scammers will use your personal details to steal your money or commit another crime.

What do scammers ask for?

Scammers try to gain your trust by pretending to be from a well-known organization or agency such as the IRS, Public Service Company, Microsoft, your bank, law enforcement, or Medicare, to trick you into giving away your personal or financial information, scammers may:

• get you to click on a link

• ask you to give them remote access to your computer

• ask you to pay a debt

• ask you to buy a voucher to pay a fine

• ask you to transfer funds or send money overseas.

 

Tip: If you are unsure whether a message or call is real, do not use the contact details provided, instead do an internet search for the organization’s number or email address.