Be Alert - Scams are everywhere!

We are receiving calls every day from clients enquiring about questionable calls, texts, emails and direct social media messages they are receiving, especially those related to the tax office and superannuation. 

Evolution team members have reported a variety of scam contacts they are also receiving almost daily.  Here is a list of just some of the recent ones reported:

  • Issues with internet connection or the internet about to be disconnected;

  • COVID–19 health warnings and advice;

  • COVID–19 charitable donations;

  • Superannuation; 

  • Tax office payments or money to be credited; 

  • Cancellation of your tax file number; 

  • Electricity and solar offers;

  • Employment offers and quick money access;

  • Winner of a competition or offer to enter a competition.

These scammers are convincing and seem very real.  It can be challenging for even the most careful people not to fall for their sneaky approaches.  So we ask you to always be alert and aware.  It is better to offend a caller or seek further advice when receiving messages before providing them with any information.

Some good ways to avoid being a victim are:

  • Always ask the caller for their name and number so you can return their call;

  • If you receive a call from a number you do not recognise, jot it down and try calling it back;

  • Never give out any personal details via phone or through email to anyone you have not met or had previous contact with;

  • Take your time and do your homework before acting on any offers;

  • The tax office, any government agency, super fund, building society or bank will never ask for your details over the phone or through an email without first asking for you to verify yourself.  Neither will they ever will ask you to make payments or give account details.  To be certain, it is always advisable to take down any details and contact your bank for verification should you receive correspondence you think is official;

  • Never give out personal information such as your birthdate, full name or other important identifiable details to anyone.

ONLINE SECURITY

Never click on links that appear in emails unless it is from a business or person you can verify is the original sender.  Scammers are very clever and will often send texts and emails with a familiar address or business name.  Hovering over the name often reveals the true email address.  By clicking on links, you can often jeopardise the security of your iPhone, laptop, computer or iPad and suddenly have all your information stolen or a virus installed on your device in one click.

Only shop where you see a secure payment choice and from sources you know are reliable.  Be very careful when clicking on offers that appear on social media channels.  It is always best to be cautious and go directly to the advertised website.

It is alarming and sad that we can no longer trust many within our community, but scamming is currently just another pandemic we are facing.  We need to take care and precautions just as we are doing with our health.

For further information on some of the scams currently reported in Australia please regularly check ACCC Scamwatch and also consider taking the time to report any scam contact you may receive.

If you think you have been a victim of a scam here is where you can obtain help.

Jo Bright