Fraud – protecting your customers
10 Simple things that can be done to prevent fraud
Fraud can take many guises – corruption, concealing assets, fake accounts, and payments to fake companies and people, just to name a few.
With the growth in online services and internet use, there are many opportunities for criminals to commit scams and fraud.
We believe it’s crucial to be aware of scams and the ACCC have provided a useful guide as a reminder of simple things that can be done to prevent fraud.
10 Simple things that can be done to prevent fraud
- Be alert to the fact that scams exist. When dealing with uninvited contacts from people or businesses, whether it’s over the phone, by mail, email, in person or on a social networking site, always consider the possibility that the approach may be a scam. Remember, if it looks too good to be true, it probably is.
- Keep your mobile devices and computers secure. Always use password protection, don’t share access with others (including remotely), update security software and back up content. Protect your WiFi network with a password and avoid using public computers or WiFi hotspots to access online banking or provide personal information.
- Choose your passwords carefully. Choose passwords that would be difficult for others to guess and update them regularly. A strong password should include a mix of upper and lower case letters, numbers and symbols. Don’t use the same password for every account/profile, and don’t share your passwords with anyone.
- Beware of any requests for your details or money. Never send money or give credit card numbers, online account details or copies of personal documents to anyone you don’t know or trust. Don’t agree to transfer money or goods for someone else: money laundering is a criminal offence.
- Know who you’re dealing with. If you’ve only ever met someone online or are unsure of the legitimacy of a business, take some time to do a bit more research. Do a Google image search on photos or search the internet for others who may have had dealings with them.
- Do not open suspicious texts, pop-up windows or emails – delete them. If unsure, verify the identity of the contact through an independent source. Don’t use the contact details provided in the message sent to you.
- Keep your personal details secure. Put a lock on your mailbox and shred your bills and other important documents before throwing them out. Keep your passwords and pin numbers in a safe place.
- Be very careful about how much personal information you share on social media sites. Scammers can use your information and pictures to create a fake identity or to target you with a scam.
- Beware of unusual payment methods. Scammers often ask for payment by wire transfers, preloaded cards and even iTunes cards and Bitcoin. These are nearly always a sign that it is part of a scam.
- Be careful when shopping online. Beware of offers that seem too good to be true, and always use an online shopping service that you know and trust. Think twice before using virtual currencies (like Bitcoin) – they do not have the same protections as other transaction methods, which means you can’t get your money back once you send it.
