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Older Victorians lose $4.5m to scammers – some tips to avoid scams

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Older Victorians lost more than $4.5 million to scammers in 2016, with the government launching a new awareness campaign to stem the flow of cash.

A Consumer Affairs Victoria survey released on Monday 5 June 2017 shows nearly one-fifth of older Victorians have fallen for a scam and people aged 55-and-over made 7000 reports of scams last year.

A new multi-government agency campaign to educate older Victorians, including information sessions at libraries, has been launched by consumer affairs minister Marlene Kairouz.

“Many older Victorians are attractive targets for scammers, because they often own substantial assets and have access to life savings and superannuation,” said a Consumer Affairs Victoria spokesperson. “Many are also looking for smart ways to invest their money or build their nest eggs.”

Consumer Affairs Victoria released a set of tips for older Australians to avoid scams:

  • Be wary of online sellers offering goods and well-known brands at extremely low prices.
  • When selling items online, do not follow the links in a payment notification email to check whether the payment has arrived; log into your account directly.
  • When dating online, do not send money to someone you have never met, even if you have spoken to them or received gifts from them.
  • If you are searching for rental properties online, always inspect the property you want to rent before signing a lease agreement or sending any money.
  • Be wary of unsolicited emails saying you have unclaimed funds or are owed money.
  • Do not let anyone pressure you into making quick investment or financial decisions.
  • Never send money or bank details to claim a prize.
  • If you get a call out of the blue from someone saying they need to access your computer to repair it, hang up: it may be a scam. Get a professional to check your computer if you think it needs repairing.

 

 

Source: AAP

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Alana Lowes

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