McCORMACK WARNS PUBLIC TO BE VIGILANT AGAINST FUNERAL SCAMMERS

Federal Member for Riverina Michael McCormack is warning members of the public to be wary when viewing information about funeral services on social media after an alarming uptick in funeral scammers.

 “I’m calling on everyone in the Riverina and Central West to be on the lookout for funeral scams on social media and to make sure to report them to Scamwatch.gov.au and the social media platform on which they are hosted,” Mr McCormack said.

  “Typically, these scams take the form of Facebook pages and accounts purporting to be the official page for the deceased’s funeral service.

 “These pages will then request payment and registration to be able to view the livestream of the funeral but may also make comments requesting donations for the deceased’s family.

 “Unfortunately, to many, these pages appear legitimate because they often use pictures of the deceased and the official funeral notice taken from a reputable funeral home.

 “In some cases, they will even send multiple friend requests or a request for payment on the day of the funeral.

 “It is absolutely disgusting to know some people would stoop so low as to target mourners who are just trying to farewell their loved ones.

 “Scams such as these are seriously deplorable crimes and I think the New South Wales Government needs to have a look at the offences and sentencing applicable to such scams to ensure they are fit for purpose.

 “Funeral homes in the Riverina and Central West are highly reputable, so if you are in any doubt of the legitimacy of information regarding someone’s funeral online, please contact the funeral home directly and report the matter to authorities when necessary.

 “A funeral home will never ask for payment to view or attend a funeral service.”