Sunshine Coast police are urging community members to be vigilant in the face of possible fraud.
There are many types of fraud and they can be delivered through mobile applications, phone, email, social networking, internet, in person and text messages.
Scammers, phishers, conmen and defrauders attempt to use clever means to cheat unsuspecting victims out of something of value or to obtain a benefit.
A skilled fraudster has one sole purpose and invests their time and energy to gain your trust and access your information.
Be prepared to take notes of your conversation and challenge the person by asking questions about the opportunity they are offering you.
It is not realistic to believe that a person you have not met or just met is going to make you rich without any risk to you.
What to ask possible fraudsters
• Have you been invested in this opportunity and if so, do you have some proof?
• Is your investment registered with the Australia Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC)?
• Can you explain the investment in more detail? (this may take them away from their original script)
• What are your qualifications?
• Why I am being offered this opportunity?
Do not rush into making any decisions.
The fraudster wants you to make an on-the-spot decision, so there is no time for you to make any further independent enquiries.
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Types of fraud are relationship, credit card, online shopping, lottery, inheritances, internet, employee, cheque, advanced fee, investment and boiler rooms.
For an explanation of these types of frauds visit QPS – Fraud
If you are uncertain, you can call Policelink on 131444 or fill out a fraud report form which can be found at QPS – Fraud Report Form.
The form will be assessed by the Queensland Police Service (QPS) and placed on the case management system.
Remember, if the opportunity sounds too good to be true, it is.
This column is compiled by the Sunshine Coast District Crime Prevention Unit.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at Queensland Police – Reporting.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at Crime Stoppers.
