General News
21 February, 2024
Police issue a scam warning
POLICE have urged caution after a number of south west Victorians almost fell victim to scams recently.
Camperdown police senior constable Samuel Alexander issued a plea for vigilance after several near-misses could have cost victims thousands of dollars.
“We’ve had two near misses with regards to scams involving people purporting to be from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) or what has essentially been an instance of a dating or romantic scam – known as catfishing,” he said.
“It was an act of romantic deception for the purposes of what was essentially funnelling gift cards.
“Other scams involved attempting to deceive people in to making a transaction through Western Union.
“It was only the quick thinking of an Australia Post employee to prevent the transaction to Western Union.”
Snr Const Alexander said police had seen an increase in scammers targeting people through claims a loved one was experiencing financial hardship or were being threatened with incarceration if payment was not made.
“What we’re seeing is people calling up and requesting money for family members,” he said.
“Some scammers will claim a daughter or son in trouble, owing around $4000 or $5000 which needs to be paid via western union or gift card.”
Snr Const Alexander said it was important for people to be vigilant, and err on the side of caution when it comes to making unexpected payments.
Always go directly to trusted sources, check official sources for what they might request from you, don’t click or open links or attachments or reply to suspicious messages.
“We want to make everyone aware they should not send money via Western Union or purchase gift cards,” Snr Const Alexander said.
“Before transferring money or buying gift cards, come see us at the police station.
“Don’t make any transfers or purchase gift cards without consulting someone you trust, a family members or police.”
For more information on common types of scams and tips on how to protect yourself, visit www.police.vic.gov.au/cybercrime-and-online-scams.