Scam Alert! Protecting yourself

September 3, 2015 - 4 min read

New scams are being created everyday, but they all have the same basic tactics and strategies. Read on to learn how to better safeguard yourself from being swindled. This article is part 2 of our Scam Alert! series. See part 1 ‘Scam Alert! Top 5 Scams‘ for more information on the most common scams to watch out for. […]

New scams are being created everyday, but they all have the same basic tactics and strategies. Read on to learn how to better safeguard yourself from being swindled.


This article is part 2 of our Scam Alert! series. See part 1 ‘Scam Alert! Top 5 Scams‘ for more information on the most common scams to watch out for.


Scam Delivery Methods

The internet has breathed new life into the scamming industry, but this doesn’t mean older methods of over the phone and face-to-face scams have gone away.

When it comes to scamming, there are 3 main delivery methods:

Online—Email services, social networking platforms, online shopping, classifieds, auctions sites and online money transfer services.

Over the phone—Phone calls, SMS, smart phone apps and faxes (if you still use those).

Face-to-face scams—Door-to-door scams and fake postal services.


Scam Tactics

Regardless of how fraudsters deliver their scam, they use a similar box of tricks to get their way. In order to better protect yourself, you need to need to know what they are. Here’s a little look into a scammers’ toolbox:

Personal information—It’s common for scammers to harvest information on potential victims to make their stories sound more genuine.

Counterfeit documents—Fake documents created to make scammers’ lies seem more realistic.

Boiler room—High pressure sales tactics can be used to push you towards making split-second decisions.

Cool gadgets & offers—Great new technologies or discounts they will offer, that don’t actually exist.

Scamming technology—Fake websites, phishing emails and malicious software can all be used to scam money online (particularly from those not computer savvy).

Vulnerable lists—Scammers can purchase lists containing the names of people who have previously fell for a scam and target them.

International wire transfer—Easy way for scammers to take your money and avoid getting caught.

Personal touch—Scammers will play on your emotions to groom you and gain your trust.


7 Tips To Protect Yourself Against Scams

It’s all good knowing how fraudsters scam you out of money, but how do you stop them before it’s too late? We’ve provided 7 tips to help keep thieves away from your hard-earned cash.

  1. Never let your guard down—scammers can target you any time, any place
  2. Whether it’s a suspicious email, letter, SMS or phone call, if you’re sceptical don’t respond or simply hang up
  3. Keep your computer secure with firewalls and anti-spyware software
  4. Never agree to an offer straight away—do your research and seek advice before handing over any money
  5. Never send money to someone you don’t know or trust and only use a secure payment service
  6. Protect your identity at all costs—whether it’s online, over the phone or face to face
  7. If an offer (or potential investment) seems too good to be true, it probably is

Reporting A Scam

The best way to defeat scammers and ensure others don’t fall victim is to report the scam and raise awareness. But who do you contact? The Scamwatch website is a great resource for scam information and also has a form which allows you to report a scam.


Need help securing your computer? We’ve featured a couple of Townsville network and IT system consultants who will be happy to help.


D-Stress Computers

Servicing: Townsville & surrounding suburbs
Email: assistance@dstresscomputers.com

If you haven’t got a clue when it comes to computers, let the team at D-Stress Computers provide you with stress-free IT solutions. Services include:

  • Virus protection
  • Tablet & smartphone training
  • Mobile service & more

From virus protection and everyday backup solutions right through to computer repairs, upgrades and more, D-Stress Computers offers a great range of tech services to suit your needs. For more information, visit the D-Stress Computers LocalSearch profile.


Choice Computer Solutions

Servicing: Townsville
Phone: (07) 4789 0018

Whether you have a problem with your computer’s hardware or you just need some expert advice, Choice Computer Solutions can lend a hand. Services include:

  • Computer repairs, installation & maintenance
  • Virus removals
  • Network & systems consultants

Available 7am to 6pm Monday through to Saturday, give Choice Computer Solutions a call today for a free quote. For more information, visit the Choice Computer Solutions LocalSearch profile.


To learn about the most common scams, see part 1: Scam Alert! Top 5 Scams