CALL OUT THE MOBILE PHONE SCAMS

Riverina MP Michael McCormack is urging residents to “call out phone scammers and help stop them in their tracks”.

The message comes in response to the increasing number of scam calls and texts being received by people across the Riverina and Central West.

Many across the community have reported a spike in the number of nuisance calls and scam text messages and emails being received.

“The number of complaints I have received from business operators and the elderly in the last month alone is staggering and is becoming a real concern,” Mr McCormack said.

“With an increase in online shopping and a take-up of click-and-collect during the recent lockdown period, co-incidentally, there has been a rise in the number of scam text messages and fraudulent calls attempting to appear as though they are from Amazon, Australia Post or other providers and agencies such as the NBN, Telstra or the Australian Taxation Office.

“I have received many spam calls and texts myself and appreciate the inconvenience and anxiety they cause. However, I stress, look at the messages carefully, do not click on the links provided and never give out your bank details or personal information unless you trust the caller or the sender.

“I worry for those who have fallen victim to these deceitful traps, set to catch out those who are distracted and off-guard, people with low-tech capability, vulnerable members of our community, teens, those with a disability and the elderly.

“Everyone can help reduce the number of scams, stop the conniving scammers in their tracks by reporting incidences of scam calls and texts via the online reporting tool, Scam Watch (www.scamwatch.gov.au/) or calling 1300 795 995.

“Additionally, I encourage everyone to register their phone number on the Do Not Call Register (www.donotcall.gov.au/), in an effort to help reduce the number of nuisances calls we all receive.”

Following the spate of scam calls and text messages being reported, Mr McCormack raised the issue directly with the Minister for Communications, the Hon Paul Fletcher MP, who has indicated the reporting of scams is proving effective in guiding the Government’s response to reducing the impacts of scams on Australians.

“Being safe online and aware of scams is paramount to protect our privacy, personal identity and finances, so I urge everyone to be alert of the dangers and call out scams!” Mr McCormack said.

More information from the Federal Government on the suite of programs and resources available to combat scams and stay safe online can be accessed by visiting: https://bit.ly/3F3Z7ix.