Reported scams include fake virus alerts and bank impersonations

Reported scams targeting elderly residents have prompted Sunshine Coast police to urge the community to stay alert.

Police have, in recent days, received reports of scammers claiming victims’ computers had been infected with viruses.

The scammers then reportedly convinced victims to install remote access software, allowing them to access bank accounts and steal tens of thousands of dollars.

Police have also received reports of scammers impersonating bank staff, convincing victims to transfer money to a so-called ‘safe’ account as part of a fake operation to catch criminals.

The scams have resulted in victims losing substantial sums of money.

Police have reminded people to precautions to reduce the risk of being scammed.

• If you are suspicious about the credentials of a person on the phone, ask questions. If they avoid answering or refuse to provide information, hang up.
• Never provide your financial PIN or account passwords to anyone.
• If you receive a threatening phone call or a call demanding money, hang up immediately.
• Never provide your personal or banking details to a person who calls you.
• Do not make any payments to a caller, including via phone, internet or cash.
• Never allow a caller remote access to your devices, including your computer and telephone.
• Don’t let scammers create a high-pressure situation to encourage you to make a decision on the spot.

If you have received such a call and made payment to a potential scammer, contact your financial institution immediately and report the matter to the Australian Cyber Security Centre – ReportCyber.

If you did not lose any funds, you can still report the incident to Scamwatch.

Learn more about phone scams at the Scamwatch website, and QPS’s fraud and cybercrime resources, R U In Control. If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at  police.qld.gov.au/reporting. Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at crimestoppersqld.com.au.