Article supplied by Seniors Enquiry Line
Anyone that has a phone, whether landline or mobile, has received a scam phone call at one time or another. Some days it might feel like we only receive calls from scammers!
Phone calls are the top method of contact that scammers use as they often have computers to make the call for them which may have a recorded message. Some may ask you to press 1 for more information and transfer you directly to the scammer.
If you are suspicious that you have been contacted by a scammer, HANG UP!
Some people worry that it is rude to hang up on people but it is rude that a scammer wants to steal your money!
Examples of common telephone scams include:
- Scammer claiming that you have a virus or another computer issue which requires you to grant the caller remote access to fix
- Scammer claiming to be from your bank wanting to confirm your personal details
- Scammer claiming that you have an outstanding debt with the taxation office and if you don’t make immediate payment, you will be arrested
According to Scamwatch’s Targeting Scams 2019 report, that Australians lost $32.6 million to telephone scams so clearly, these scams work!
What can you do to protect yourself?
- Be wary of all incoming calls
- Verify that the caller is who they say they are. You can do this by ending the call, finding their number online and calling them directly. If they had tried to call you, there should be details on file
- If you receive a call that you think might be a scammer, hang up. Do not continue to engage with scammers.
- Block the number from contacting you again
- Do not share your personal details such as banking details or passwords
The Seniors Enquiry Line has a scams awareness project which provides education sessions around scams and how you can protect yourself. If you are in South East Queensland, a representative may be able to provide an information session your Seniors group or workplace. For further information about scams or you are interested in organising an information session, please contact the Seniors Enquiry Line on 1300 135 500 between 9am-5pm Monday to Friday.
