
- Privacy guard scams how to#
- Privacy guard scams install#
- Privacy guard scams update#
- Privacy guard scams software#
- Privacy guard scams password#
a doctor calling you to alert you that the scammer urgently needs medical bills to be paid or they might die. Law enforcement agencies do not charge for their services offers from a law enforcement agency to investigate your scam and retrieve your money for a fee. Scammers will often try to take advantage when you’re feeling vulnerable and try to extract more money from you through a follow up scam. You can use image search services such as Google or TinEye. Tip: Do an image search of your admirer to help determine if they really are who they say they are. Scammers often use fake photos they’ve found online. 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. Beware of offers that seem too good to be true, and always use an online shopping service that you know and trust. Scammers will often ask you to use an unusual payment method, including preloaded debit cards, gift cards, iTunes cards or virtual currency such as Bitcoin. Don't agree to transfer money or goods for someone else: money laundering is a criminal offence.īe wary of unusual payment requests. Never send money or give credit card details, online account details or copies of personal documents to anyone you don’t know or trust. If you recognise suspicious behaviour, clicked on spam or have been scammed online, take steps to secure your account and be sure to report it.īeware of any requests for your details or money. Privacy guard scams how to#
If you use social networking sites, such as Facebook, be careful who you connect with and learn how to use your privacy and security settings to ensure you stay safe. Review your privacy and security settings on social media.
Privacy guard scams password#
Don’t use the same password for every account/profile, and don’t share your passwords with anyone. A strong password should include a mix of upper and lower case letters, numbers and symbols.
Privacy guard scams update#
Choose passwords that would be difficult for others to guess and update them regularly. Protect your WiFi network with a password and avoid using public computers or WiFi hotspots to access online banking or provide personal information.
Privacy guard scams software#
Always use password protection, don’t share access with others (including remotely), update security software and back up content. Keep your mobile devices and computers secure.Scammers can use your information and pictures to create a fake identity or to target you with a scam. Be very careful about how much personal information you share on social media sites. Keep your passwords and pin numbers in a safe place. Put a lock on your mailbox and shred your bills and other important documents before throwing them out.
Privacy guard scams install#
Scammers will often ask you to turn on your computer to fix a problem or install a free upgrade, which is actually a virus which will give them your passwords and personal details.
Don't respond to phone calls about your computer asking for remote access – hang up – even if they mention a well-known company such as Telstra. Don't use the contact details provided in the message sent to you. Do not open suspicious texts, pop-up windows or click on links or attachments in emails – delete them: If unsure, verify the identity of the contact through an independent source such as a phone book or online search. If a message or email comes from a friend and it seems unusual or out of character for them, contact your friend directly to check that it was really them that sent it.
Do a Google image search on photos or search the internet for others who may have had dealings with them. 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. Remember, if it looks too good to be true, it probably is.
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.
Be alert to the fact that scams exist. Scammers are getting smarter and taking advantage of new technology, new products or services and major events to create believable stories that will convince you to give them your money or personal details. Scams succeed because they look like the real thing and catch you off guard when you’re not expecting it. There's no one group of people who are more likely to become a victim of a scam, all of us may be vulnerable to a scam at some time. Scams target people of all backgrounds, ages and income levels across Australia. About Scamwatch Expand submenu for "About Scamwatch". News & alerts Expand submenu for "News & alerts". Scam statistics Expand submenu for "Scam statistics". Attempts to gain your personal information. Types of scams Expand submenu for "Types of scams".