Scams

Scams attempt to take your money under false or dishonest pretences.

Criminals who run scams often operate from overseas and their victims are often impacted both financially and emotionally.

There are many different types of scams, but "advance fee" scams are the most common.

This type of scam asks you to send a small amount of money at first, with the amount increasing the longer the scam goes on.

Scams continue to increase in sophistication and take many forms.

Some of the most common scams currently operating include:

• Romance scams
• Inheritance scams
• Online sales scams
• Investment scams
• Fake Medicare Email scam

To keep track of the latest scams visit the Australia Competition and Consumer Commission's Scam Watch website.

To learn more about a free Alerts service visit the Stay Smart Online Alerts Service webpage.