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Be Aware Of Fraud: How to Protect Yourself

on Wednesday, January 14, 2015

In a world where advanced technologies are becoming more prevalent, the threat of fraud is also significantly increased. 

The elderly are more likely to become victims of fraud than any other crime, and occurs most often when goods or services are sold or purchased over the telephone or via door-to-door traders.

The best way to avoid being caught by fraud is to be aware - stay informed about the latest con schemes by reading the newspaper, watching the TV and talking to friends and family. 

Below is a list of the most common type’s of fraud and how to avoid getting scammed:

Home construction, building & repairs

Always ensure you check the contractor’s reputation/proper identification. Try to obtain estimates from reputable contactors and remember that the cheapest quote may not necessarily be the best. Never pay for work in advance on small projects and don’t be forced or rushed into signing a contract.

Vehicle purchases & mechanical repairs

Always obtain quotes for repairs. It is a good idea to check how long specific repairs should take with your vehicle manufacturer. If buying a vehicle privately, it is recommended you contact the Personal Property Security Register before making any purchases.

Telemarketing

Many businesses use telemarketing to sell their products and services over the phone. Reputable direct marketing businesses follow a strict Code of Practice that restricts calls to between 8am – 9pm daily, with no calls on Christmas Day, Good Friday or Easter Sunday. Unfortunately, scammers often use the same techniques as legitimate companies to sell over the phone. If you’re unsure about the caller’s honesty, you can hang up or ask for more details/documentation. DO NOT give them any private information about yourself, finances or bank details. If you would like to reduce the number of telemarketing calls you receive, you can asked for your phone number to be added to the ‘Do Not Call Register’ by calling 1300 792 958.

Credit Cards

Rapid changes in technology means that scammers have access to more sophisticated counterfeiting systems. Remember to not leave your cards where other people may see them and always report lost or stolen cards to your bank immediately. Make sure to keep a list of all your cards and numbers somewhere safe - not in your wallet or purse! It is also beneficial to check your monthly credit card statements to ensure there are no purchases you don’t know about.

Door-to-door traders

Door-to-door traders are only permitted to call between 9am – 6pm Monday to Friday and 9am – 5pm on a Saturday. They may have an exemption from the Office of Fair Trading, allowing them to operate outside these hours. If people come to your door offering to perform work they must: provide a written contract if the value of the work is more than $75, offer a 10 day cooling off period during which they cannot demand or accept money or commence work. If you do hire a door-to-door trader, please remember the following in order to stay safe: do not pay up front, get more than one quote in writing and always ask to see proof of identity. If the work is valued at more than $1000, make sure you employ only licenced tradespeople and asked to see their Building Services Authority (BSA) card.

 

If you suspect you are a victim of fraud, call your local police station. Brochures on fraud and its prevention are available by contacting your local police station. 

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