Warnings Raised as Australians Lose Millions to Financial Scams 💸🔓

Australians are urged to stay vigilant against an increase in financial scams. Criminals are using unexpected contacts and promises to gain access to personal information and siphon off funds. 💢

Remote Access Scams: A Growing Threat 💻

The National Anti-Scam Centre, a new Australian government initiative, has reported a surge in remote access scams. In these scams, fraudsters contact victims under the guise of helping to repair problems with their accounts, phones, or computers. Once the scammer gains access, they manipulate the system to extract financial information or transfer funds into their own accounts. 👨‍⌔╔╝_

For more information on remote access scams, preventative measures, and responses for those affected, visit the National Anti-Scam Centre website.

The National Anti-Scam Centre: A New Resource 💡

The centre, which was set up with funding from the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), aims to help Australians avoid scams, make it easier to report incidents, improve information sharing to disrupt scammers, and supports law enforcement. 🚔

Areas of Concern: Imposter Bond and Term Deposit Scams, AI Trading Platform Frauds 🚨

In the latest quarterly update, the National Anti-Scam Centre identified imposter bond and term deposit scams, and AI trading platform frauds as particular areas of concern. 💰📊

Fake Email Invoices: A Common Tactic ✉️

Elsewhere, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s (ACCC) Scamwatch is advocating caution against fake email invoices. In these scams, fraudsters impersonate genuine businesses people have recently dealt with. By sending altered payment details, scammers redirect funds into their own accounts. 🔄

To stay informed about the latest scams, sign up for Scamwatch’s scam alert newsletters.

Online Safety and Privacy Resources 🌐

The Australian Cyber Security Centre, the eSafety Office, and the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner all offer resources, training, and advice on online safety and privacy concerns. 🔒