Yahoo Finance WARNING: this new phone scam is targeting Aussies
Police have warned Aussies to be aware of a new phone scam targeting residents.
The ‘robot’ callers claim they will pursue a lawsuit or arrest the person being called if they do not return the call.
Kings Cross Police Area Command posted a message on Facebook with an audio recording of the phone scam.
“The moment you receive this call, I want you to get back to me on my department division number 6102 0472,” a robotic voice is heard saying in the audio recording.
“Now if we don’t hear from you, we have to issue arrest warrant [sic] under your name and get you arrested, so get back to me as soon as possible.
“Thankyou.”
Kings Cross police advised Aussies to hang up immediately and not to call back.
“THIS IS A SCAM,” the post read. “Don’t let it ruin your festive season, but most importantly DO NOT CALL BACK.”
Legitimate businesses would not contact people in such a manner, or request payment in Bitcoin or iTunes cards, it said.
“This is just another low trick to target the vulnerable.”
Kings Cross police advised residents to inform their friends and family about the scam, and to take the following precautions, such as resisting pressure of handing over details such as personal or banking information.
How to protect yourself
For information on how to protect yourself, visit scamwatch.gov.au.
If you receive a threatening phone call (and demanding money), hang up immediately;
Do not disclose personal details, banking details or passwords to the caller;
Do not make any payments to the caller, either via phone, internet, or cash;
If you are suspicious about the credentials of a person on the phone, ask questions of them. If they avoid answering or refuse to provide information, hang up;
Don’t let scammers pressure you – scammers use detailed scripts to convince you that they’re the real deal and create a high-pressure situation to make a decision on the spot;
If you think you have provided your account details to a scammer, contact your bank or financial institution immediately; and
Contact police immediately to report the incident.
To report a scam, visit the ACCC website at the ‘SCAMwatch report a scam’ page or call 1300 795 995.
