Understanding and spotting scams

There has been a recent rise in online and over-the-phone scams. Scamming involves criminals using manipulative tactics to get your personal information.

There are four types of common scams:

1. Hacking. This is where someone uses technology to illegally access the information on your computer or phone.
2. Phishing. Where a scammer tricks you into giving up your personal information by pretending to be an organisation or person you trust, such as a bank or a loved one.
3. Identity theft. Where a scammer pretends to be you to commit illegal activities in your name.
4. Remote access scams. Where a scammer creates a ‘problem’ on your device and convinces you to download software to fix it.

Here are some important tips on how you can avoid falling prey to a scam:

• Be wary of messages that are out of character. If you’re not sure, always contact the person or organisation directly.
• Choose strong passwords. Change them regularly if you can.
• Stay alert to suspicious deals or offers. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
• Look for signs of ‘urgency’. Scammers will usually use time pressures to trick you.

Remember, Link Wentworth will never text you or call you out of the blue asking you to transfer us money. If you don’t recognise the person speaking with you, or you receive a suspicious message, please let us know immediately.