Across North Queensland and remote communities, scams are becoming more sophisticated. At the Indigenous Consumer Assistance Network (ICAN), our financial counsellors are seeing more people caught out by scam messages, fake phone calls and even online gambling sites designed to steal money or personal information. The good news is that knowing how these scams work is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your family.
Red flags to watch for
Scammers rely on creating urgency and confusion. If something feels rushed or unusual, it is important to pause and check.
Some warning signs include:
- Messages or calls asking for your bank details, passwords, or one-time security codes
- Requests for urgent payments or transfers
- Links in text messages asking you to log into an account
- Calls claiming to be from a government agency or bank that ask you to verify personal information
- Deals online that look too good to be true
Banks, government agencies and legitimate businesses will never ask you to send money to protect your account or provide passwords over the phone.
Simple steps to protect yourself
There are a few simple habits that can help keep your money and personal information safe.
First, don’t click links in unexpected text messages. If a message claims to be from a bank or company, contact them directly using their official phone number or website.
Second, never share your bank PIN, passwords or security codes with anyone over the phone or online.
Third, if you receive a suspicious call, hang up and check. You can call your bank, telco provider, or a trusted family member before taking any action.
Finally, remember that you are not alone if something goes wrong. Many people experience scams, and support is available.
ICAN can help
If you think you may have been targeted by a scam or lost money, ICAN can help you understand what to do next and talk to banks or companies on your behalf.
“Scammers are getting better at tricking people, but the best defence is awareness,” said ICAN CEO Aaron Davis. “If something doesn’t feel right, take a moment to stop, check and talk to someone you trust before acting.”
If you are unsure about a message, phone call or online offer, reach out to ICAN for support. Acting early can make a big difference in protecting your money.